Modern Wisdom #632 - Ed Hagen - The Evolutionary Psychology Of Anxiety & Depression
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May 25, 2023 In this discussion, Ed Hagen, a Professor of evolutionary anthropology at Washington State University, unravels the evolutionary roots of anxiety and depression. He explains how these feelings, often seen as disorders, may actually be adaptive responses to adversity. Hagen explores the complexities of postpartum depression, highlighting its social implications for new mothers. He also addresses gender differences in mental health and offers intriguing insights on how physical strength correlates with mental well-being and suicide patterns.
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Depression as Psychic Pain
- Depression is an extreme form of sadness, or psychic pain, caused by adversity.
- It serves as a signal to stop harmful actions and reflect on the situation.
The Silver Lining of Rumination
- After Ed Hagen's father died of cancer, his mother's depression led her to ruminate on his illness.
- This prompted her to urge Hagen to get a colonoscopy, which revealed a potentially life-saving polyp.
Depression's Signaling Function
- Depression symptoms, like physical pain, signal a need for social support.
- This signaling function helps individuals address adversity they cannot handle alone.