Feel Better, Live More with Dr Rangan Chatterjee

Uncovering the Real Causes of Depression with Johann Hari PART 1 #51

Feb 27, 2019

Johann Hari, a prominent voice on depression and anxiety, shares insights from his extensive research on the causes of these issues. He discusses how lifestyle, loneliness, and societal values significantly contribute to mental health challenges, rather than just biology. Hari argues for the importance of social prescribing and community connection in combating feelings of isolation. He also highlights the destructive effects of shame and trauma while emphasizing the need for autonomy in the workplace to improve well-being. This conversation is rich with thought-provoking anecdotes and compelling arguments.

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Intro

00:00 • 4min

Understanding Depression: The Role of Loneliness and Societal Values

03:59 • 2min

Rethinking Mental Health: Beyond Chemical Imbalances

06:10 • 28min

Compassionate Approaches to Mental Health

34:28 • 14min

The Unchanging Principles of Health

48:16 • 13min

The Impact of Autonomy and Connection on Well-Being

01:01:31 • 5min

Exploring Connection and Mental Health Insights

01:06:04 • 3min

CAUTION ADVISED: this podcast contains swearing and themes of an adult nature.

For the past few decades, almost every year, levels of depression and anxiety have increased in Britain and across the Western world. But why? One of the most important voices in this area, Johann Hari, went on a forty-thousand-mile journey across the world to interview the leading experts about what causes depression and anxiety, and what solves them.

He shares the fascinating findings of his research in this week’s podcast. Johann explains that although we have been told a story that drugs are the solution to depression and anxiety, in many cases, the cause is not in our biology but in the way we live.

He argues that being depressed or anxious does not mean that you are crazy, weak or broken, rather, that your natural psychological needs are not being met. And it’s hardly surprising - we are the loneliest society there has ever been.

We discuss how loneliness affects us and how social prescribing can transform lives. We delve into the role trauma plays and how shame is both physically and emotionally destructive. Johann believes that societal values have been corrupted and explains the effect that this is having on our health.

Finally, we talk about the role of the workplace and how having autonomy and choices can reduce the likelihood of depression and anxiety. This is a gripping conversation and Johann's anecdotes are truly captivating - I hope you enjoy it!

Show notes available at drchatterjee.com/51

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DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.