Thailand is grappling with a severe youth drug crisis as narcotics such as cannabis, kratom, and methamphetamine become increasingly accessible, reports the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth). Urgent measures are required to combat the escalating issue, compounded by inadequate public health resources, according to Rungarun Limlahaphan, director at ThaiHealth. In 2024, out of 13,631 youths prosecuted for criminal offenses, 8,971 had drug use histories, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.
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The problem is notably prevalent among students, with many drug users identified in lower and even primary education levels. ThaiHealth and Rocket Media Lab conducted an analysis indicating that the decriminalization of substances like cannabis and kratom has led to a marked increase in their use. Methamphetamine remains the most used drug, with 3,240 youths consuming cannabis and 1,579 using kratom in 2024.
A troubling trend is the use of online platforms, particularly X, as primary distribution channels, which represented 68% of drug-related sales. Emojis serve to disguise drug names, bypassing monitoring systems. Furthermore, there has been a shift in drug-consumption locations from public areas to private spaces such as rooms and resorts, making enforcement efforts more challenging.
The strain on Thailand’s public health system is acute, as the number of individuals seeking treatment in 2025 is projected to reach 260,000, far beyond current capacities. There is an urgent need for more addiction psychiatrists to facilitate recovery, emphasizes Satichai Arpornsiri, managing editor of Rocket Media Lab. Collaborative efforts across sectors are essential to support youth and enable their reintegration into society.
Looking ahead, Thailand must address its shortage of addiction specialists to effectively handle the treatment demands. Public health strategies need to be strengthened, alongside increased monitoring of online drug sales. These steps are crucial to safeguard the future of the nation’s youth from the ongoing drug epidemic, reported Bangkok Post.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now · Bangkok Post · 05 Mar 2026