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Modern Wisdom

#632 - Ed Hagen - The Evolutionary Psychology Of Anxiety & Depression

May 25, 2023
01:07:02

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Quick takeaways

  • Depression is seen as a protective mechanism akin to physical pain, signaling difficult times.
  • Suicide attempts serve as credible signals of distress, seeking assistance in potential life-threatening scenarios.

Deep dives

Depression as Adaptive Sadness

Depression, the most common mental health issue, is deemed as adversity-induced. The high prevalence and adversity link suggest it is a form of extreme sadness signaling difficult times. This evolutionary approach posits depression as a protective mechanism akin to physical pain, halting harmful actions and promoting problem-solving for survival. Psychic pain associated with depression mirrors physical pain's functions of alerting danger, prompting self-reflection, and seeking resolution.

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