Depression is a disease of civilization: Stephen Ilardi at TEDxEmory

[@ThrifterPickerShipper]

"We were never designed for the sedentary, indoor, socially isolated, fast-food-laden, sleep-deprived, frenzied pace of modern life." Well that about sums my life up in a nutshell.

[@kgurr2345]

ever met an office worker?

[@T0MBRA1D3RR]

The word "designed" is not the right word to use. Humans were not designed for anything. In terms of evolution, we're predisposed to live a certain way that maximizes our survival. We are evolving, but many people cannot keep up. That's not their fault... that's just natural selection at work.

[@frauwolle2417]

Gladly we create our environment. Society and human environment is men-made. So we can change the environment. No need to die because of predisposition.

[@justmadeit2]

Depression info : There are over 250 videos about depression, in two folders in the playlist part of my channel, looking at depression from all angles, the biggest collection all in one place, hope people find them useful as a resource in your recovery or your understanding of depression ? Just click on playlist when on my channel to find the folders. Thanks.

[@wisconsinhunterwhitetail5040]

Debbie Wilson you are spot on,so true. I so hate depression just a downward spiral but I can't seem to find my way out of

[@gabrielstorm3536]

"It is no measure of health to be well adjusted to a profoundly sick society" - Jiddu Krishnamurti

[@Theflowoflove]

+Gabriel Storm Well said.

[@jackchorn]

+A.L. B.A.M.A I like that. I've known many of these people- tuned into their social environment like an instrument. The funny thing is tat if asked anthing out of tune they have a difficult time comprehending or responding. So true this observation of Huxley- reminds me that I wanted to research his efforts on social programing.

[@jackchorn]

thanks for the link. Just the other day I went to our local visitors center- only because I had never seen it open. I walked in and a well groomed older lady greeted me. She asked if I was visiting- I said No, I live here. She then went on here little rant about the shops and restaurants in the area. It was almost as if she had not a clue how to respond outside of her scripted vocal tour. I was amazed and amused and listened patiently. I thought how strange the encounter was- so cold and all business- no regular ok then- how long have you lived here? Anyway the reason this came to mind seemed to be the same experience as that morning joe interview with Russell Brand. The anchors(?) fell apart with a host who was simply being himself and honest- a real person. If you havn't seen it you should- its interesting. I feel that our society has become so self censored that common genuine personality is all but disappearing. But maybe its the RF weapons controlling the population- got to get my tin foil- ha. 1 out of 4 people are on medication for behavior issues. Seems to me that its not the people but the society if the numbers are that high. Funny that non of those drugs are proven to work nor do they know why. Cheers- take care

[@AlmaWells]

+A.L. B.A.M.A - good point! Very interesting comment.

[@gabrielstorm3536]

jackchorn The essential concept here is Darwinism/Naturalism. Adapt to the context or perish. The problem is that individual people don't have enough leverage to control the context. To do that requires alot of money or time or numbers. Keep everyone poor, busy and fragmented and the artificially created power system perpetuates..

[@Nancy-pv7wk]

Getting off social media was the best decision I made in my battle with depression.. best decision I ever made!! Then I started to walk everyday for an hour, or so, and then I incorporated healthier eating.. then I started to repair the relationships I cherished, and then I healed for the most part..

[@ire1398]

You are on social media right now.

[@keithtreco8851]

@@ire1398 come on bro this dont count give nancy A break lmao

[@glennandric6846]

Congrats, you deserve every achievement you made. As the saying goes, "there's a lot of good things just on "the other side" of hard work.

[@minhchaupho8955]

How did you do that? I'm doing exercise, but it's getting difficult the longer I try to maintain it... I got drained of energy, and my depression just gets worse....

[@rosegallus4048]

@@ire1398 🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗

[@gummibears27]

God bless this man! Finally someone said it! This is so incredibly important to be understood. Depression is rarely just a brain chemical issue, the vast majority of cases are caused by people being treated like crap by society. If someone is sensitive, has depression genetics, and/or have gone through bad things in life such as chronic illness or abuse, their chance of getting depression is very high. It is absolutely ignorant on every level to say that depression is purely brain chemicals, or something is wrong with the person for feeling that way. The facts are this is a very tough world made even tougher by the society we live in, which expects us to be efficient robots in order to survive. We're fed terrible fears from a young age. We're told you can't have what you want, do what you want. Just find a job you can tolerate because you can't do what really makes you happy as that makes no money. I could go on but I ran out of space. Please world listen to this man!!

[@Endless_sea_]

gummibears27 I agree!

[@squamish4244]

There is a solution, but not entirely in what he's saying.

[@brianvina9228]

gummibears27 and also that you're expected to be the same as everyone else, normal, you can't be different just like people of different races, ethnicities, and backgrounds are hated and discriminated against, people with mental illnesses are too.

[@brianvina9228]

gummibears27 and also this is cruel world so people who are really sensitive like me for example can't handle that, we can't handle reality and the way the world works.

[@LeonGalindoStenutz]

Bo Qin, Of course there are solutions on the macro level -- and they start at the nano/micro level... the level we exist on as individuals. Change and wellbeing start here. I speak from personal experience. :)

[@noxustds]

Economists will tell you the quality of our lives went up in recent years, psychologists will tell you otherwise.

[@rebeccalankford2652]

Materialism vs personal inner needs.

[@gengiz80]

@ጠዪ. ፕቿዕዕሃ you can't eat money

[@and__lam1152]

Work with Ayahuasca to heal what ails ye

[@domib.3924]

Who do you think knows what they're talking about, people who devote their time to money, or the human brain?

[@jeffreykaufmann2867]

Depression has always existed.

[@melaninqueen5945]

This title is definitely on point. I am from Africa, came to Europe to study about 2years ago. Back home we all socialize even with the schedule of work we always find a way to socialize with each other. We also live in close knitted families like you can find three or four generations of a family living in the same compound. Reality hit me here, when one day after closing from school I came back home to see bunch of police officers at our corridor. When they left I asked the lady next to my room what the officers were here for out of worry that something have gone wrong in my absence. She never uttered a word or even look at me. Then I realize I am in another world and have to adjust. I was living with a spouse at the beginning but when he left to go back home I am so lonely and depressed. Western live is nice but I think they definitely need to adjust on their social cohesion aspect. How can people live so close but still far apart. You may have a problem and wouldn't have anyone to talk to. That's very difficult. That's how I feel now.

[@CanadianMonarchist]

I hope you have been able to make friends.

[@melaninqueen5945]

@@CanadianMonarchist yes I did. I have even completed my studies and returned to my country. I have made many good friends, some of whom I still communicate with. Thank you for your concerned.

[@CanadianMonarchist]

@@melaninqueen5945 You’re welcome.

[@Laura-jx7il]

I honestly dream of living in a big family but one that i’m choosing myself, not my biological family because it’s not working

[@robertsidibe3096]

@@Laura-jx7ilhaha same

[@NARCOTICjungle]

I knew I had depresion when I didn't like to play games anymore, no but seriously I did not like to do anything that I used to love to do. It affected my job, my relationship and many things and the worst part about it that alot of people dont understand and thats when you start feeling lonely and weaker every day. This is the worst and if you do have depresion treat it... its never too late. Thanks for this video it was amazing.

[@shunaadushana5367]

worse. People shut you out, isolate you, call you a weakling, lazy, loser, do everything in their power to make you more depressed, more certain that you're useless and that killing yourself is the best thing you can do. Been there, experienced it first hand. And not a bit of help from anyone, including doctors, for years. Wasn't until I got another doctor once, one who was experienced dealing with depressive people on a human level, that I started getting some help. Never did get pills, still have to be very careful to avoid anything reeking of sadness, anything that upsets me or makes me angry as it may well drive me back into that state of mind and return me to depression and borderline suicidal tendencies. Yes, exercise (as in being physicall active, not mindlessly pumping iron in a gym) helps. But it's easier said than done if you're physically limited by chronic injuries. Which causes more problems, you get overweight, your doctors start blaming your condition on your weight problems and instead of working with you to overcome those just sneer at you that "fatso should exercise more and eat less" without ever asking what or how much you exercise and eat. Which drives you deeper into depression, and the downward spiral accelerates.

[@Catssandra13]

Shuna adushana You are so right, especially your point about people making you feel even more depressed, as if you are making it up, or it's just something that you can overcome if you just "snap out of it", that you could shake it off, get back into a so-called normal life. People get fed up with you. They tell you that you are a negative person. Make you feel like a lazy person, a failure, because you lose your job, your interest in anything you once loved to do, and your life spirals out of control. You gain weight, look physically bad, and feel even worse inside, and helpless too. Most annoying are those that have been depressed at some point in their lives and tell you that you have to get out there and be active, when in fact, that is the last thing you feel like doing. I am lucky in that I have wonderful kids who understand my illness and support me, and a brother who understands too. Then there are other family members who pick on me, make me feel inferior, lazy, a loser, a failure, because I do nothing to improve my life, in their opinion. Friends I have lost, because I just cannot explain how I feel, and they simply feel that I am being unfriendly, as if I choose to isolate myself. And the meds - well I do take them, and they work for a while, and then comes the time when they simply don't work anymore. I isolate myself because I feel ashamed, because despite all the info about depression, the stigma is still there. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, It is good to know that there are many others who understand.

[@Urza26]

rokedetbamidbar8 You're absolutely right. Though I'd add that being physically active is indeed one of the ways to limit the severity of the depression. Just that as you pointed out, you won't feel like doing it at all. Anyway, I really hate those who seem to do their best to make you feel even worse by insulting you.

[@IK-fg4gw]

NARCOTICjungle you are so right

[@IK-fg4gw]

NARCOTICjungle hey handsome....you sexy😍

[@eswan8900]

This is actually my Psyc teacher at KU and I feel so relieved when he talks about depression and anxiety this way cause I know I'm not crazy for suffering this much, albeit quietly.

[@suedeleone300]

I feel so fortunate to have found him today!! You are incredibly lucky to know him as your teacher! Depression hurts even if it’s not seen by others. I “heard you.” Sometimes, being quiet, while in pain, is an adaptation? I’m quiet too.

[@gregorysmathew8727]

I felt the same way while listening to him.

[@chijhawk1462]

Next to Dr. Snyder, Dr. Ilardi is amongst the very best I have had the great fortunate of studying under. I owe them more than I'll ever be ever to repay. RIP Dr. Snyder. Dr. Ilardi, thank you.

[@meghanr9639]

So I'm not strange for having an undeniable urge for years to move to the mountains, surrounded by trees, no tv, no phone/internet, and just be..

[@shainaariane4334]

I was thinking the same thing!

[@bashboi4074]

Bro I want a little farm in the mountains SO BAD

[@KathyHussey063]

No you are not strange, I think many many people don't like or tolerate a lot of interaction with people. When there's too much negative information or negative energies in their general area lot of us long for some quiet solitude. I didn't used to feel this way but between 30 years spent raising 5 kids and me being raised with 6 sisters, surrounded by people all my life, plus adding in the 'glitch in the matrix ' weird changes I felt happen in early 2017, well now, at 60, peace and quiet (like just sitting outside on the beach, at the ocean, or by a riverbank fishing, reading a book, journaling, gardening by myself or editing my writing) {that needs to be done so badly} sounds like heaven to me. I'm going to buy me a smallish houseboat or a tiny home and a lil cabin somewhere (a cabin by a lake or river big enough to park the boat nearby would be perfect !) Hopefully soon I will get that all arranged and try to just live very simply. It turns out that the answer is : Yes, you can have too much contact with other people for your own good...lol. (that's the case for me anyway, maybe not for everyone but I tend to pick up everyone else's mental energy around me so it can be overwhelming and confusing.)

[@S4vh55hdci]

Same here!

[@holgerjahndel3623]

Also see the anthropologist James DeMeo about it.

[@arthurvin2937]

This is all true. But there is a problem - being depressed it is very hard to push yourself to do those things like walking, running, socializing (non-internet), even having healthy food. All these things require time to be spent, but the time is limited, especially when you're depressed, but still doing your daily job, sometimes struggling to get everything done in a time. It is like vicious circle. But once you get out of it, even for couple of hours you will feel happy. I remember myself trying not to miss my flight, I was driving fast, I was running fast, and I got it just in time. I was so happy the rest of my day, not because I made it (probably also), but because physical activity I got. So my advice is - don't think about whether do something or not, because when you are thinking like that you will probably stay in your chair or in the bed with laptop like you are doing right now. Don't think, just stand up and take a walk on the fresh air.

[@sr4rrz]

Arthur Vin so true!!! I will take this advice

[@LulitaInPita]

RikuKH and if you can get that kind of help then you're very very lucky. Sadly, many lack that kind of good support system...

[@jackofshadows8538]

no

[@PersonalVideos2008]

Mood follows action. If you smile it can make you *feel* smil-ey. I've been depressed. It is sooo hard to get up and move. Sometimes it's helped me to just COMMIT to it, other times, it's helped to view it as an experiment: the goal is to what happens ("damn it, this is useless, and I'll prove it"). (Not the best attitude to start from *but* whatever gets me moving.

[@zerosandones701]

@Melmano "Life is endless practice." It's okay if it stops working... when you remember, start it again :)

[@justingeorge5325]

Depression is like drowning while everyone around you is breathing

[@biggernadz]

Exactly

[@infowazz]

Justin George never thought it would get me but finally stuck in fear and the loop keeps getting triggered. no where to escape where i live, sucks hereeeeee

[@friedtofu704]

+Jon Focker Let's live life to the fullest. We can do this!

[@infowazz]

Anonymous Account I know, most of its in our head. But if you live in a lame or boring area with superficial zombies than it can get frustrating. When i was a kid i thought everybody was smart and caring. I assumed people had morals and were just. Now i find that to be very rare. Everybody seems to have been brainwashed to be the opposite of what they should be. That is not a coincidence. It is social engineering.....which is a nazi term. The masses are socially engineered to view reality a certain way. They don't get any deep knowledge about anything, they get fast food bullshit to keep their minds occupied on nothing significant. So i think many of us who cannot be brainwashed are also very feeling people. It drives us mad seeing others be narcissistic, superficial, greedy, slanderous, when they really have no idea why they do it in the fisrt place. They think that is how life is to be. Sad. That is why life seems backwards. It is engineered to be so in order to keep us all controlled and distracted. But knowing that is also very liberating and can help you to hack the system.

[@friedtofu704]

Jon Focker​ Funny that you've mentioned fastfood! Cause I seriously was just fucking up with my mind thinking if I should or shouldn't order for Mcdonalds delivery just to relieve this stress I'm feeling right now. *Mindblown lol Anyways. I know how feel and I agree to some of your insights. I thank you for sharing your thoughts. Prior to watching this video I was watching a documentary about death. I learned something but not from the film but from the people commenting. People see death differently and we have our own belief about it just like with how we see/experience life. Depressed life, happy life etc. At the end of the day, life matters. Living in/at the moment to the fullest is the key *I believe. You and I know we can do better than all this bullshits in our lives 

[@Cathy7167]

He is right on the point. I have suffered from depression and anxiety for 43 years.Tried therapist, Rx, etc. Have tried to have intelligent conversations with family who couldn’t handle the stigma or just don’t believe in it. I have no social interaction and extremely little family time. Have to start walking (that requires getting up to walk nowhere) and remembering to take my vitamins. Thank you

[@abacoejenks]

the isolation is what really triggers depression I think. The french are believed to have a saying, "to be cut off from the pack is death." I think that we are built to have a self destruct mechanism when we are cut off from the pack or --and I am suprised he didn't make this conclusion--in extreme distress like about to be eaten. it's like jumping out of a building rather than being burned. I was once sent to a psych ward because a pain killer I took triggered suicidal thoughts. I was surprised how quickly all of my depressive symptoms went away when I was socializing in a group.

[@stephend2879]

Best overall talk on depression I've seen.

[@sharmasibal]

Absolutely. By far the best.

[@truthlivingetc88]

for many reasons yes

[@ImagineFreedom]

In his book it is also summed up very well..it helps a lot

[@alejandravillasanteramos3755]

By far my favorite teacher so far, like ever.

[@Timbo37]

Agreed

[@MarshasJourney]

I started exercising and I became so happy my mind was blown. No matter how terrible I feel before going to the gym I always leave feeling the opposite

[@glennandric6846]

Congrats Marsha! Everything you said applies to me too. I see my workouts as "therapy" and try not to miss any of them. I found the hardest part was getting to the gym itself but once there, it was all downhill. Science explains why exercise is so effective. I wish more people would do it but I realize that for some, it's almost impossible so they need to build to it.

[@propbraker]

That's great! Not sure that’s what you really look like ur photo, but my goodness you’re beautiful!

[@auradjmixes4748]

No one felt bad after the gym

[@gerardschaefer6495]

I agree 1000% I'm 45 n found this out about age 20. Worked better than any Meds. However the other aspects of good food, lots of water, sleep, all.have to be in order n keeping alcohol to a lower level of consumption. That is just me but seems very helpful to many. Add therapist and possibly meds if deemed necessary. Love to everyone n hope you all find your way Im still struggling but doing better.

[@lackadaisicaldreamer]

I think the problem is that it's more than a lack of physical social activity; it also has to do with being in the wrong social group. He said something about being with family can reduce stress levels, lol what if they are the cause of your stress levels? Our Society is messed up, and it's not so easy to engage in social activity when we're surrounded by so much negativity. Some people are douchebags, simply put. And don't get me wrong I'm not saying that everywhere you go you'll see a mean face, nor am I advocating that all social activity will fare badly...I just wish he emphasized that the kind of social activity we need today, is the kind where we don't just get lumped into a crowd and get all warm and fuzzy inside just from seeing another human being. We need social activity where people actually *genuinely* give a crap about each other. And that is something that money can't buy.

[@Jenkkimie]

+ChipsAhoy That is true but then you could ask for example why is it that your parents behave that way. For example I have had a rocky relationship with my mother because she has been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) so it has not been always easy. But once I started studying Psychology and understand my parents behaviors, I learnt how I can best express those issues I had with them and work with them to find solutions. I can tell you that we have a much better relationship these days. And that is what you might want to try out as well. You are right that social groups can harm you but what is also obviously true is that all of this social media, all of this talk without human connection is just a substitute form of escapism from those problems. And do you remember what Dr. Steve Illardi said about isolation? It is the worst thing we can do to ourselves functionally because it is running away from those issues (conflicts) without solving them, rather than trying to solve them so they no longer cause issues. There are ways though and interestingly the tools are right there in front you this whole time. The internet. Seek out groups and activities of people that align those of yours. When you find common interests, it is so much more easier to form those interests. Or if you are more open minded individual like I am, then seek to experience and learn new things which is what I personally love to do all the time. You'd be surprised how much you can accomplish by just deciding to take that first step towards a better tomorrow by just typing into the search engine the questions you want answered. Where do I find so and so minded people?

[@lackadaisicaldreamer]

Jenkkimie I understand what you're saying, and you are right. However, I can't say that it is that easy to find like minded people in most circumstances, but as I get older I realize that no matter where I am there will always be a difficult person, and I have the ability to choose whether I will get along with... so and so. And whether they wish to reciprocate or not, is their problem. And yes, social isolation is the worst of them all, but sometimes people end up being alone not by choice, but by circumstance. There are situations where a person really can open up to people, but for whatever reason, no one cares about them. -Such a reality exists. There are lots of scenarios I could think of, but really, that would take all day.

[@vahiddabbagh6794]

+ChipsAhoy I think we are heading to new form of society that require changing of many things in individuals. I think we no longer need and could not have previous generation level of social connection. The reason is that nowadays everybody are extremely different from others. In addition life is going to be more complex and more competitive. Therefore, new generation is facing with radical changes and every years rules is changing and no prediction could be made about future. New generation are trying to adapt but it is difficult which yield epidemic depression every where on earth. We need to adapt we need to change our self again or we become depressed and I believe there is a way to keep our self out of this mess by using to loneliness.

[@lackadaisicaldreamer]

thebestdrummer51 You mean when I say "nor am I advocating that all social activity will fare badly..." ?

[@yahiawaleed3428]

+ChipsAhoy i totally agree(i dont want to be a dog that drool whenever the bell rings even if there is no food), the thing is...that thing is not at our disposal, there is a lack of relationship between the potential common ground and the probability(willingness and adaptation) of a successful long term social relationship establishment, i gradually became aware that money doesnt solve anything even if im not rich myself currently, i tried to convince people to try their hand at more in-depth social engagement so i can have more of a target practice and not staying as a lunatic to them all the time. seems they need a bit more persuasion, and i hope will have a hint at what they need to be persuaded by.

[@AyeitsAngel]

My escape is my dreams... I sleep to get away...

[@Mark-sj3xb]

I often look forward to bedtime and I’ll justify any way I can go to bed earlier.

[@richardherberthenkle2817]

Sleep is good, and it feels very good. I love to sleep after a hard day. Glad to see Sleep on his research list.

[@filipemartins1850]

Jesus loves you, his love can heal your depression, thank you.

[@unnigardener]

It's great, but some don't have enough of it

[@dhw14]

Lucky you. I have nightmares that cause me to scream in my sleep sometimes... I can never get away. No escape for me.

[@noahi.1381]

Society has slammed its pressures onto me so hard that it knocked my feelings out. No, seriously, I can’t feel anything.

[@j11994466s]

The chronic stress faced by our young seems to me to be the primary driver of such rates of depressions. We load them up with education loans. Then we set up work places where they can never hope to pay them back. Work is 24 / 7 these days without respite. The only place where these things do not happen are among the super rich who harvest all of the fruits of our efforts.

[@joeldwest]

Mark Mulakush yes, ear the rich....yes.....

[@joeldwest]

Eat, lol

[@irisrose4732]

Yes, and the chasm is growing deeper and deeper.

[@maxwellmerzoian6122]

The super rich aren’t happy either. They are driven by an insatiable list for power and never can find satisfaction. One very wealthy man was expressing how tired he was of making money, someone asked him why didn’t he do something else, and he replied “it’s the only thing I know how to do”. They suffer from a disconnection to their souls, to the life force just as we regular depressed people do

[@origamipostit]

@@maxwellmerzoian6122 I feel like this is one side of capitalism that is so harmful to us. We are taught to make more and reach higher. We need to teach that it's ok to be content with where you are and if you aren't making the most. College is basically mandatory now in America. We should look more at trade jobs where you are maving around, interacting, getting sunlight, and getting that 4 hour of exercise. So many people I believe would be happier doing something that showed their work being used and making an impact on society.

[@cmclaybird214]

Im laying in my room crying watching this hanging on

[@cloudstrife206]

cmclaybird214 1 year later I hope you are still with us

[@kalakritistudios]

Yo, what's up? You fine?

[@CanadianMonarchist]

I hope you are in a better place now.

[@kalakritistudios]

@@CanadianMonarchist umm... not exactly the right set of words man😅

[@CanadianMonarchist]

@@kalakritistudios Yes, perhaps "A better place emotionally" would sound better. :)

[@whattowatchrightnow]

Depression is EXTREMELY painful. Even when managed with medication every day is a challenge.

[@MOAB-UT]

Have you leveraged nutrition to the fullest?

[@whattowatchrightnow]

@@MOAB-UT Well, I over-ate for dinner. I may have another snack later. Does that count?

[@MOAB-UT]

@@whattowatchrightnow Ha. Nutrition really does help. If you cut out all sugar, have wild salmon often, you might feel better. Drink only water.

[@whattowatchrightnow]

@@MOAB-UT I'll try. thank you. I love salmon anyway.

[@MOAB-UT]

@@whattowatchrightnow Nice. It is one of THE best sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. It must be WILD Salmon- never farm (highly toxic.) I recommend you bake is at a low temperature- around 300F. It's healthier that way- less AGE's (true of beef as well.) I noticed you like guitar from your playlist- me too. I've been playing a long time. That could be a really fun hobby for you to consider. With Nutrition and Music and maybe some running/hiking on your side, you might be feeling better in no time!

[@jimtabler]

I've been struggling lately and have found some comfort in watching Ted Talks on managing depression. I can't recall the number of videos I've watched hoping to find something to grasp onto and give me a sense of hope. This presentation spoke to me in a way that no other video has. I am grateful to those who have dedicated their lives work to understanding and treating depression. I hope others are able to watching it and find a sense of hope within the knowledge that is shared. If you're struggling with depression, don't give up, it will get better.

[@kaykayron2012]

I hope you are feeling better

[@MOAB-UT]

Leverage nutrition and running!

[@nayasea3918]

Depression is like dying a slow death that last forever and it does not arrive soon enough.

[@lovetolearn881]

Please go outside and walk. Make it a rule that you MUST walk every day even if its cold. After a month you will be craving that walk. By month three it will be part of you, you will NEED to walk outside. If you only have 10 mins when you decide to go walk, GO! Does not matter just do it every day. You will want to walk more and more and become more and more happy. Exercise, fresh air, sun, seeing other people. All WIN! Don't keep spiraling down. Get up and walk outside right now!

[@mifnp8887]

Best advice on this thread.

[@revolutionunderground]

Sounds like someone's OCD about exercise lol

[@healthyone100]

there some woods with a beautiful stream behind my house and can;t wait to get out and walk it helps my depression i'm also a vegan and feel good about putting only fruits and veggies in my body!

[@rossiethomas]

Thank you

[@KathyHussey063]

@Ann-Marie Paliukenas just find one person near you (start with one worthy soul you notice) and reach out to help them in some way that you see they could use some help. Carry in their groceries, offer to babysit, wash someone's hair who has dexterity problems, (an older lady like myself would adore anyone who offered to do that for me I assure you !). Paint the nails of a sick woman who has a broken arm or m.s. and can't move. You could make some cookies and twist up 2 or 3 in little ziploc baggies with a ribbon or put just a few hershey kisses in them. Write short notes saying " I am __________, your neighbor at (apartment number or address). I am available to babysit for ages ____ at (put days and hours or what weekend nights you'd want to do it) Then your per hour price, (make it really cheap if you want to make a lot of new friends lol) You can offer housecleaning or dog walking too or to run to the store for people if that's an option for you. If your goal is meeting others who are nice people, remember ; you yourself are nice and you live there where you live, right? So try to figure out whose doors seem most likely to be decent enough people of all ages, and put your lil notes on them one day. Maybe you'll begin meeting some good people that way, or if not maybe at least you'll get a few small jobs and make a few bucks. You win either way. lol. Open your life to let others in by reaching out, you will often find your soul sisters right there near you, just as in need of a kind face and a friend as you are.

[@michaeljechon6139]

Agrarian society, while subject to famine and hard labor, historically suffered far less from things like depression because you often labored in the company of your peers, friends, and family. There was a sense of connectedness and community in those days. What he's saying makes absolute sense to me. However, I feel he's merely scratched the surface of a problem that is systemic in nature and scope. Mass depression is seemingly a product of the Industrial Era, along with capitalism's every-man-for-himself, Horatio Alger myth-fueled socio-economic structure . I'd gladly trade in my microwave and IPhone for a clay hut and peace of mind.

[@TDub0807]

Mike Echon well said Mike. I'm starting to see the truth in all of this. Once a capitalist, it really has compartmentalized and divided our species. I feel so isolated in life even though I am surrounded by people. We have all become strangers focused on materials rather than connection. I would love to be able to remedy this.

[@squamish4244]

We can't go back. We CAN go forward. We aren't destined to be stuck here forever.

[@maidende8280]

I agree with you except for the capitalist aspect; I think you put too much blame on it, rather than its abuse. Well said otherwise.

[@brynleytalbot778]

I think the point is that your freedom and independence comes with a vast bill - loan interest via rent or mortgage, rates for services you may never use if healthy and law abiding, electricity to light and heat, supermarkets for food, etc. Once you subscribe to capitalist societies you are never free. Hence the clay hut in a land where there are no taxes and it's a hunter gatherer existence. There lies the conundrum. Whether to exist or be a consumer? Industrialisation only works with consumer economies. Western comfort and "advancement" or basic needs? Do we have a choice anymore?

[@chrisnamaste3572]

You can still do so; New Guinea is still there.

[@itube612]

This doc is OUTSTANDING. I am battling major depression and anxiety for my whole life (almost past 20 I am treated for it) and even though I care about these things a lot, this is by far the best approach I have ever seen. What he says MAKES a lot of SENSE. I have to get the book. The work of this man saves lives!!!

[@ra-kun5929]

Very good talk. I'm here because watching stuff like this is the only thing that makes me feel like I'm understood in a world full of people who always tell me "you will be fine", "you're just tired" or just dismissing my depression as if it is nothing but a bad day.

[@frenchwannaloseweight]

Yes I understand, you have these people who dismiss your depression but also millions of others who are suffering like you

[@Ljounieh]

"You're too sensitive" is a family favorite

[@3Slim3Shady3]

having depression is far far different from feeling depressed

[@healthyone100]

very correct!

[@frankm.2850]

I highly recommend Dr Ilardi’s book “the Depression Cure.” As someone who’s lived with depression since high school , it’s been incredibly helpful. Lost Connections by Johann Hari and Spontaneous Happiness by Andrew Weil should be at the top of the list as well.

[@thequietinside3201]

This whole thing is spot on. I intuitively found my way to all of these remedies he has outlined & they all make me feel so much better. I definitely haven't fully implemented all of them into my life, but at least I know what truly helps now. The fact that no one had to tell me these things & that I found my way there through my intense suffering.. shows that these are truly the things human beings need. We, in our modern times, have gotten it so wrong. Our priorities are completely twisted. I hope at some point we collectively realize the way we're going isn't working. It's not leading us toward happiness at all.

[@glennandric6846]

I'm surprised you received only 11 likes for your interesting post. I had a similar experience; ie., found my own way from depression to mental health mostly through working out in the gym. I think many individuals, including mental health professionals, "collectively realize" what's going on out there but governments everywhere must allocate much more funding to tackle unprecedented mental health issues. And in my opinion this would be especially critical in the United States of America.

[@iron60bitch62]

When I go camping for extended period of time which is five days and more my depression virtually disappears

[@tisminnit]

Im hoping this will work for me. Going camping on the coast with my mom because im in such a dark place. Nature is healing. And camping means not a lot of phone time which can be great.

[@TrapDaddy65]

@@tisminnit How was the camping trip?

[@shainaariane4334]

Me too!

[@anarcho-communist11]

When I lost my car and had to walk places a lot, my depression went away.

[@cienciabit]

Exercise not only increases serotonine or dopamine levels, it also increases the BDNF (Brain-derived neurotrophic factor) that promotes neurogenesis. But for this, you need months (at least 2 or 3) of continue exercising.

[@moniqueborrego7510]

Cienciabit: Ciencia y Tecnología. Are you a chemist and from which country

[@moniqueborrego7510]

Are you a chemist and from which country

[@tysswe1]

Wont matter if its the way of modern life itself that makes you depressed.

[@RandyLott]

Thank you for the information. I was unaware that it took many months. I NEVER have a pleasurable feeling after exercise, but I may need to be more consistent.

[@xo7499]

tysswe1 exercise DOES matter you do it outdoors in the greenery.

[@n8sterling727]

I literally stood up an applauded this mans Talk. I'm recovering from a severe TBI and boy have I had some dark days. My life style from before and after, has made all the difference in seeing hope and leaning into pain whenever Im faced with it. Love you all.

[@LizafromWhere]

however for those of us that have no family or loved ones being told time and time again family is the answer makes the agony worse

[@GUITARTIME2024]

my family totally let me down when my depression hit. only the right med and exercise saved me. fuck so called family (mine at least). half of them just wanted their chance to sob and ask "why lord???" at a dramatic funeral. my ass will live a long time and they wont be part of it.

[@Marbee514]

+raleighman3000 me too my family messed me up so bad

[@57Strudel]

Yep, social interaction CAN help but the disease is a physical disease. You can be with the most loving family on earth and still be ill. And I feel really sorry that you and others like you are being handed such platitudes.

[@brindlebriar]

Well, then don't worry. Most depressed people have families, and the modern family can be a major source of depression. The grass always looks greener on the other side. Kids run away from home and wish they were orphans and fantasize that they were adopted. Romantic love usually lasts 5-15 years. Men and women cheat, fathers can't take it anymore and leave, mothers can't take it anymore and leave with the kids. Or they both agree to just sacrifice any hope of happiness and tough it out for the kids, the irony of which cause is that they raise their kids to live the same lives in the same society in the same way, and their lives are just as miserable and pointless and hopeless. Now isn't that an encouraging thought? :D

[@Lisa58Mc]

I understand what your saying..... I have no blood family either but I have my church family. I had to work & push myself & it was a process. I didn’t want to die & I knew I would if I did not listen & start doing. For example, exercise is medicine & I knew that but stopped going to the gym because a leg amputation s few years ago. I thought I couldn’t exercise & I was wrong. I stopped making excuses & just did it. It’s not easy but it’s getting easier . Baby steps are okay... The joke at my church now is ‘everyone knows that you have the most dysfunctional family in our 3000+ congregation Lisa” ...that’s my pastor joking with me. I stopped blaming the world for my problem. It’s my life in jeberdy here. I’ve been disabled since 2012 I thought because I lost my leg....found out recently that they disabled me due to clinical depression. That was an eye opener. I thought I was hiding it pretty good ...I was wrong again....stay strong! xx

[@Jeb9221]

I very much agree with Dr. Stephen. Modern society is unnatural. We're not supposed to live this way. I feel happiest when I'm climbing rocks and trees for hours (I do that while I'm fishing).

[@Ana-ls8rh]

Me too. When I'm in my house in the city, I have NO energy to do anything and no will to live. I can go days or even weeks without a shower. It feels like I'm a zombie most of the time, and not even a human. However, when I go for a hike in the woods, I feel ALIVE, happy, and I forget about all my troubles.

[@bravetherainbow]

Modern society is still technically a natural progression from what came before. We cannot simply go back in time to a simpler way of living... Well, maybe we can emulate it in some way, but our society has changed over history as we have spread throughout the world, developed new technologies, and increased in population, and we need to work out the best way forward from here.

[@ire1398]

I gave up and decided people can think I’m lazy. I am freelance and I turn down jobs all the time. I am lucky that I can afford it. So many people have told me I will make a lot if I work all the time. Not interested.

[@konyvnyelv.]

I love modernity since it gives us more rights and privacy

[@brookeisabelle6717]

What a charismatic and well-spoken man. I could listen to him for ages.

[@TanyerLamb]

I find that many people think that depression can 100% of the time, be cured by a lifestyle change; for many, it's an issue that's very chemically-based. I was running 12km a day, and training regularly, eating my omega 3's (and a very clean diet,) and couldn't stop contemplating suicide, despite everything going really well in my life. I'm not saying that it can't be cured by a lifestyle change, but that each person's chemistry is unique, and a scattershot approach (be it a wholly medication or lifestyle or holistic method of treatment) is one that is unlikely to succeed. To say a lifestyle change is the answer, or only medication is the answer, causes the sufferer of depression to question "what am I doing wrong?" rather than "what are some steps I need to take, to get better?"

[@chriswritescopy]

Good post. Fully agree.

[@iLUVsmokinBUD]

Your lifestyle affects the amount of chemicals and what is going on with you so, you're not making perfect sense.

[@TanyerLamb]

It does, but there tends to be a baseline deficiency, surplus or overall balance of chemicals in the brain that appears to be genetically predetermined. It's still undetermined, but it appears that both nature and nurture have a lot to do with one's disposition, so all the lifestyle changes in the world, can't fix someone whose brain naturally doesn't produce enough or overproduces serotonin.

[@chriswritescopy]

Not sure smokinBUD is great for depression either, mate.

[@veronicalawrence5725]

I agree with you 100%. I am 53 years old and have been suicidal for 41 years. I chose not to have children because of it and I am still struggling. I'm a Catholic and struggle with the idea of suicide. Condemned to life!!!

[@shadowheart52]

I've been depressed for 40 years. Hardly anything cheers me up. I've pretty much given up on ever escaping it. Honestly, I just try to live with it the best I can. I figure it it's going to follow me wherever I go I might as well just learn to endure it.

[@notaras1985]

If you did a brain scan and didnt find any cerebral corruption, you might as well be mildly possessed or at least under the influence of a demon. but thats my religious beliefs anyway. but let me tell you a story. a man from my city goes at a trip with his car after finishing his ar,y service. he was driving on a mountain. at a point he sees the road changing. on his left where there must be road sees solid rock and the road continues straight. at a moment the breaks break. he gets immensily scared the doors jammed as well. he was not a very religious man back then so he says the only thing that came to his mind. saint marina help me (the church in his village is dedicated to santa marina and has her name) and he suddenly sees a woman in black, sitting at his beside seat pointing left with her finger. in the last second he rotates the steering wheel and gets right through the rock! if he continued straight where he was seeing road he would be flying down the cliff. it was just an illusion. by whom? you'll see. a year later he goes to a psychological asylum to visit his grandmother that went in with altzheimer. when he enters the front yard a man attacks him out of nowhere. one of the patients goes straight on him and with angry intentions try to beat him. the male nurses (four of them) act fast and grab him and start pulling him away from him. and while he is dragged the patient shouts with a terrible voice. "We didnt get you that day. whyyyyy? we had you in our hands in that mountain. but that damn woman in black came and helped you. He sent heeer. damn Hiiiiim (Christ)". he was totally frozen and terrified. the funny fact, after that year he had put the incident in the back of his mind, almost forgotten. and then a "patient", he had never met before, told him the story he alone experienced on that mountain. it doesnt require much mind to see that man was possessed by a demon. by the demon that tried to kill him specifically. he still tells the story with a trembling low voice. and the question that arises. how many of those "patients" that are enclosed in asylums have a real neurological problem and how many are in fact possessed? and the scientists try and try with their neurologies, psychologies, sociologies but they forget we also have a transcendent soul than can be blessed and sanctified but at the other extreme, can even get to be possessed by legions of demons. our soul, it can be attacked subtly and unconciously, many of the uncomfortable voices you hear in your heads, a blasphemous thought, a thought of desperation, of pride, an unexplainable sudden weight on the chest, a sudden loss of all motivation and energy, are more often than not demon attacks. many of the sadness, accidents, and other human tragedies that happen, behind them, there is very often the hand of a misanthrope demon.

[@deborahhebblethwaite1865]

shadowheart52 the next time you have a thought that brings you down, you know that voice carrying on in your head just say to that thought “ you are just a thought form and i am not these thoughts”. Dont fight the thought just watch it rise, you will feel the effect, and then watch it float away, some relief however temporary will be felt. “. Just keep doing this practice and take calm long breaths in and out. Or try tapping You will find it on youtube. You are the observer of your thoughts. They are not who you are.....

[@illuminatedmoonlight]

I love this. This inspired me to go work out. I've been taking antidepressants for 7-8 years now and I'm only 22, went off them for a couple months, became suicidal, went back on and became stable. Not sure what to do.. I am ready to try everything to avoid becoming suicidally depressed again. I get bad days are normal, that is fine with me, depression is days and weeks of pain- exactly like he said!! I love people who understand mental illness is a very real thing and we are not just trying to "victimize" ourselves!! I want to be strong! :)

[@cheyhey2170]

i hope you didnt stop taking them at once? you lower the dosage 2 weeks 5-10mg dependint on what your taking. seek a professional if youd like to try and stop taking them slowly, just so he can check up and agrees

[@dcfromthev]

As far back as I can recall I've been overwhelmed with extreme depression, anxiety, and just a general feeling of unhappiness. A deep sense that I don't belong in my environment became increasingly apparent as I grew up. In my early 20's, after considerable observation of others and the world around me, simple logical analysis brought me to the realization that NO ONE is living a natural life. And certainly by no means a FREE life. Far worse than the aforementioned irony, is the discovery that we not only exist within, but that we are BORN INTO a reality in which we are (literally) not allowed, nor even physically able to pursue a decent, safe and natural life. The most basic and fundamental human right, the Freedom to be what we are, as living beings native to this planet, was taken away long before any of us were conceived. The damage to each and every one of us is devastating. Now, a growing population unwittingly join in disparity, fortunate only in that they were not cursed with the intellect to extract these truths. Instead, they are educated on their "disease" with a diagnosis of depression/anxiety/ADHD/OCD/etc and "treated" accordingly. And the real kicker? Our own ancestors created all of this, without even knowing it, standing on the shoulders of those who came before them, doing what humans do. Naturally.

[@FrancisRoyCA]

_"We are designed to be in the service of adaptive roles. We are not designed to exercise."_ I concur. I used to lift weights, because the gym was neighbour to my workplace, and I enjoyed socializing. I've had three gym sets at home and have never used them. On the other hand, I can spend a 10 hour day of fast-paced, consistent and non-stop yard work, cutting down trees, chopping up branches and splitting wood. It takes me about 90 minutes to turn my compost pile over, which I do every two days. It takes me about four hours to mow my lawn, as fast as the machine can handle. The only exercise that I manage to do is that which produces results. There are few pleasures in life as great as looking on a job well done.

[@arey01f]

When saying exercise he means movement.

[@Pulseczar1]

+Seeker I think Francis understood that and was agreeing with Stephen.

[@arey01f]

+Pulseczar1 ok

[@GUITARTIME2024]

sounds great but lifting weights and breaking serious sweat on an elliptical gives a concentrated one hour blast of goodness. the chores are very good as an addition.

[@Pulseczar1]

raleighman3000 Yeah, exercise can be hard to do, like Stephen says, but if you can distract yourself from what you are doing, then it's a lot easier. I ride a stationary bike and watch KZbin or something while I do it. It makes a huge difference to distract your mind from the rigor and boredom of exercise. I often forget I'm riding it. It helps a whole lot to stay cool, too -- shed clothes, drink a lot of water, and use a fan. Exercise seems to make a huge difference in how well I feel. I seem to feel a lot less anxiety and depression when I have been exercising. I have found that the benefits tend to not come immediately. In fact, I usually feel a little worse right after exercising, but after my body has had time to recover from the exercise, I feel a lot better. It can be very good for immediately helping anxiety, though, because anxiety requires energy. If you are tired, it's harder for your body/mind to be anxious. On the other hand, if you are caffeinated and full of sugar, it's a lot easier for your mind to be anxious.

[@JohnSmith-rh2dc]

I was in rehab recovering from addiction three weeks ago, while at first I hated it, as time when on I thought "not so bad, just have to wait it out". Then I was released and had the thought today ****"I was so happy at rehab, I don't know what is wrong with me". THEN I watched this. I'm so isolated and don't get out much. What he mentioned about being alone leading to depression SHOOK me. Very enlightening.

[@diegosantosmoto]

Environmental mutation is a great concept to understand the factor depression. We are dealing with a new world made by humans but against humanity. In my family I had some cases of depression and with this explanation everything makes sense for me.

[@MOAB-UT]

Get tested for the MTHFR mutation. If you have it, it might help you to supplement with sublingual methylated B12 and methylfolate. Always check with your doc first but you can look into it. It has helped many- especially if others in your family have had depression. One clue that you might have the mutation is if you have elevated Homocysteine levels that your doc can easily check for. I am not a doctor and this is not advice. Nutrition and Wellness however are hobbies I am quite passionate about...have been studying for years. I have learned under numerous M.D's and PhD's and read too many books.

[@anttikarttunen1126]

Also, most of cities and suburbia seem to be designed to kill that little what is left of people's souls. Just look at the buildings you see around you when you commute between work and home.

[@jecpin]

I have implemented every single one of Dr. Ilardi's suggestions: lots of exercise, Omega 3s, plenty of sleep and sunshine, solid social connections, a simple, uncomplicated lifestyle....and I have no more signs of depression. I feel REALLY good, in fact. Try it.

[@cobravortex]

In my opinion, this is helpful information. Stress can be devastating and the toxicity very harmful especially long-term. I am very appreciative to Dr. Ilardi for this incredibly beautiful video and talk. Exercise is definitely beneficial and this material, especially the advice toward the end, can really help to create a positive and reinforced plan for health and wellness. Thank you so much and peace to all.

[@aidanivesdavis]

I love this guy. Excellent presenter. This is a perfect example of what a presentation should be - extemporaneous and engaging.

[@Al-hf5ey]

Its a shame they didn't give him more time.

[@BuffaloBilly69]

I cut my toxic family out my life 4 years ago. My depression reduced to almost zero but I still have my days. As a child I learned to avoid people as all my care givers were abusive. The people who were supposed to be protect me abused me. The little depression I have now is unmet needs like living on my own, not having people round my flat and not having a partner. I am taking steps to overcome this. I would not wish depression on my worst enemy.

[@BuffaloBilly69]

Patty Nielsen such a sweet thing to do. Maybe a bit different for a bloke doing something like that. All my abuse/neglect was at the hands of women. This has lead to an unhealthy opinion of women In general. Positive female role models would be good for me.

[@feelingoffbalance]

Look into cPTSD. I had a bad childhood as well and depression does not quite describe what happens to you as a result. Look up a book called 'from surviving to thriving'. Take care

[@BuffaloBilly69]

gbmpyzochwfdisurjklvanetxq yes. Why you ask?

[@CanadianMonarchist]

Praying and sending you love from Canada- XO

[@BuffaloBilly69]

@@CanadianMonarchist thanks

[@Loljdk]

I'm extremely moved by this man. Sincerely.

[@ilkeadrall710]

My mother had depression all her life. I remember her just depressed, all day long, each and every day ... It was a hard lesson growing up with a depressed human being. Thanks to her I've never been depressed and I know I won't ever.

[@theboombody]

I know I have too many good things in my life to be depressed. I don't know how it's going to be 10 years from now, but right now I have no excuse not to enjoy the good things present in my life. I'm not going to miss out on that just because depression is spreading in this world. I'll be depressed when it's time to be depressed, and be happy when it's time to be happy. Weather was great out today. It was a time to be happy.

[@thatbitchnoemie]

​@@theboombody As if you could decide when depression is going to hit you.

[@livinabox925]

I had depression and it was worse than breaking my ribs from a motor bike accident. I slashed my wrist 6 times and bled for 5 hours before i called help. I can relate to much of what this bloke is saying.

[@SkatebardCA]

If it bled for 5 hours, you did it wrong. [serious post]

[@livinabox925]

yeah but i thought it would be over in a few minutes. how wrong i was!

[@jacksonscully9260]

livin abox Yikes man, I hope you feel better now. I have had it for over 15 years.

[@Nanancay]

Jackson Scully Do you still have it? DB

[@jacksonscully9260]

It still lingers but I have cleared it for the most part Nancy. Anxiety also.

[@JoeBarnesAuthor]

Finally someone speaking the truth. Amazing how there are no cases of depression in cultures largely untouched by so called western civilization. I made a video with a very similar theme to this talk: How to overcome depression: The REAL answer

[@Ghostrider879-i3j]

This is the best talk I have ever heard.

[@KateeAngel]

Good video. Thanks. I already have a depression for 6 years. Sometimes it turns very awful, but I am introvert, I dont show anything to other people, they dont know real degree of my depression. I hope to move outside a big city after some years, it should help. My dream is to live clise to nature and without many people around, I need rest from society too badly and rarely can reach this rest

[@TheDrunkardHu]

amen.

[@_tengri_9062]

This is what depression is. Imagine you spilled water on a kitchen floor. A normal person would clean the mess immediately. A depressed person would examine ways of how to clean it, look at the factors of what happens if they were to clean it or not, and feel shame at the fact that they aren't getting up and cleaning it up. Then a normal person looks at the depressed person and tells them "What the hell is wrong with you? It's just a spill, clean it up." The Depressed person says: "I can't." Can you see how this screws up a depressed person's life, so much, that they want to end their life?

[@xuanius]

_ Tengri _ this metaphor is pretty much exactly how it happens, especially the "feeling bad about not cleaning it up" part.

[@vasudhakota972]

_ Tengri _ this example even fits old age adults who have no energy anymore to do anything

[@cprcpr82]

I am trying to figure out what depressed person thinking and struggling actually. your explanation is enough to be my answer. thank u.

[@alanpontes2855]

And feeling worse still because you berate yourself for having caused a mess.

[@knight55]

Well described! Exactly what happens.

[@brianbrenton1025]

Depression is a lack of feeling loved, and feeling connected.

[@kelseymathias3881]

that's it!....especially no connection

[@AnPrimWrestler]

Watching this made me jealous of the hunter gatherers.

[@General12th]

I know, right? For all the diseases they got and animals they had to fight, they sure got to do a lot of scoodlypooping.

[@lukeandrews1719]

Found the An-Cap

[@TheBfutgreg]

More like Anarcho-Primitivist

[@Dennell_Mount_and_Blade]

Stop with all the labeling bullshit. You can label every single thing in life, judgmental people hiding behind their screen ugh.

[@candyjones3652]

@@Dennell_Mount_and_Blade how can we talk about things that don't have a name on the net genius?..

[@sbeast64]

The #1 cause of my depression is other people. Having said that, most of my happiest and best memories involve positive interactions with other people...hmmm what can we conclude from this.

[@handsomerube]

+Sbeast that it's important to surround yourself with people who are good for your well-being. i know you can't avoid every a-hole in the world, but you might be able to recognize consistently toxic people who undermine your peace of mind. which reminds me of the quote misattributed to William Gibson: "Before you diagnose yourself with depression or low self-esteem, first make sure that you are not, in fact, just surrounded by assholes."

[@sbeast64]

+handsomerube Hah great quote, and thanks for the tip.

[@Snakebite420]

+Sbeast Humans are social creatures, we need interaction to be happy, but there are mean people out there.

[@cameronalexander7018]

+Sbeast That you have too much reliance on other people for you mood.

[@61505]

when you are surrounded by family members as a child or young person, who are the people who cause you depression,its hard to avoid.

[@andrewhoopersbreakthrough-1061]

This jewel of a video has been sitting here for six years before I came upon it. This message should be taught our freshman year of high school. This is preparation for the real world.

[@sharmasibal]

Simply superb! The integrated and holistic approach seems to be the only way in dealing with Depression. Vedic/Indian Psychology has always used this approach to successfully cure mental disorders.

[@anilbrahmbhatt]

Hi swati

[@sharmasibal]

Hi Anil... do we happen to know each other...

[@anilbrahmbhatt]

Not really .. only here ......

[@anilbrahmbhatt]

I read about you so you can I know you little bit

[@FreeSpirit47]

I know depression very well. People can be so cruel. One can only reach out only to be slapped as a reply, so many times until ya learn to stop reaching. My life will probably end in suicide. Social isolation is deadly. Don McLean said it well ~ For they could not love you, But still your love was true. And when no hope was left in sight On that starry, starry night, You took your life, as lovers often do. But I could have told you, Vincent, This world was never meant for one As beautiful as you. They were not listening, they're not listening still Perhaps they never will....

[@joeldwest]

Brenda B Would you like to have a conversation about it?

[@cassidyladden1716]

Brenda B. Your comment made me cry. I feel like you do.

[@SociallyAwkwardGirl_OG]

Starry Night... also I relate.

[@ianh43]

Why is everyone else responsible for your happiness? Like w h a t

[@MarrilMcBlazen]

Thats a beautiful... poem? song?

[@timothyporr]

This message needs to be more widely spread. Having a sociological background, I know the effect and affect that civilization has upon our lives. Would that more could know. Thanks for this!

[@kittenforbunny]

this is one of the most important videos i've ever seen.

[@matthewdavenport499]

Life is suffering. Depressed people are way too sober. This is why we turn to drugs.

[@alayna286]

Dr. Ilardi gives some of the same advice I've heard over and over again, but in such a way that actually motivates me to make these changes in my life. I've got a Post-It note full of "need to do/purchase," an Amazon cart ready to be filled, and a scheduler ready to get marked up with places to add mild cardio 3x into my weekly schedule. Fingers crossed that I can finally fix myself without having to dive back into anti-depressents.

[@texasarcane7894]

Depression is a maladaptive hibernation reflex triggered by learned helplessness. This guy is right, for all the wrong reasons. Defining depression as pathology treats the entire Western population as if they have failed to cope when in fact they have failed to overthrow an oppressive, sick regime sitting on their throats. Depression is what happens when you have been conquered and cannot fight back. Our civilisation is a prison and the healthiest people are the first to notice the cage and the last to "adjust" to what are inhuman conditions. Primitive people faced with the bizarre task of making rent each week or being evicted in a global slave plantation would have gone mad with rage and preferred death to these whacky, nutty living conditions. No living thing could ever adjust in a healthy fashion to these kinds of draconian restrictions. Nowadays they are telling us all to sit quietly and keep paying taxes while we are phased out by robots. It is all so lunatic and utterly unreasonable that it is a doomed system by its very nature.

[@mariamassaro7985]

Texas Arcane Not sure how Kennedy works into your argument, Texas, but I otherwise agree with you wholeheartedly. The problem is systemic, yet the victims are still blamed for their suffering. My advice to anyone struggling with depression: do whatever you can to work against the dehumanizing and soul-crushing status quo. Your sorrow is NOT a disease; it’s a normal and appropriate response to a fucked-up world. Consider revolt-in whatever way you choose to express and exercise it-as a necessary supplement to your mental health regimen.

[@texasarcane7894]

Maria Massaro I realised my last sentence didn't make much sense. They shot Kennedy a month after I was born and I feel certain things have gone downhill ever since. I also feel the only thing that can upset the current system is a global war that destroys the major urban centres where the bad guys operate from. I think John Kennedy was perhaps the last competent person to inhabit that office.

[@mariamassaro7985]

Texas Arcane I fear you’re right about an apocalyptic awakening. Sadly, the most meaningful changes seem to come only in the wake of the most appalling tragedies. But kudos to you for spotting the threat and sounding the alarm. Hail to all the Cassandras of the world!

[@gerrard808]

Texas Arcane I agree. Sad part is most people who can't see that will fight for what they tought to believe is normal. We guard each other, even closest people do.Don't step out of the line! At first you may feel that breaking out of this cage is a lonely path. I did... But I believe nothing is further from the truth. I wish we could feel it.

[@G_to_the_off]

+Texas Arcane I've often wondered the same myself, but having now seen it in words, it just seems so appropriate. Good call.

[@Sid-md5en]

Depression is the worst thing of life.

[@healthyone100]

its not that bad is it!

[@healthyone100]

LOVE is the only answer!

[@tomfazio2965]

Depression is worse than cancer.

[@namanshah8354]

Tho its like an ornamwnt.

[@ykm257]

@@tomfazio2965 You've had cancer?

[@jacobbolton4227]

You are spot on, man. I experienced heavy feelings and thoughts today. I have been learning how to deal with my depressive feelings and thoughts for 8 years. I learned to build a toolkit for myself. My main tool is my attitude, which I have control over. I remain as a conscious and connected 'self' that does not identify as my thoughts and feelings. Thoughts and feelings happen at the same time and due to the chemical imbalances of depression, I must experience the heaviest of my thoughts and feelings. I have a neutral/positive attitude and can remain balanced and happy for longer and longer periods of time at this point in my life. Depression is such a trip. I feel like there is a bonus to it - I feel my feelings deeply and I feel empathy with those who feel and think with the experience of depression.

[@zelenplav1701]

Knowing that they CAN'T get ahead and have a meaningful life.

[@faismasterx]

TEDx talks are usually low quality, but this.. this was A+. Highly informative, as well as applicable.

[@ryanisacuc8381]

Your comments are usually low quality. And so was this.

[@meteor2012able]

I am almost 90 .... born during the Great Depression...born poor in a copper miningtown.... lived many hardships...had episodes of legitimate downturns, worries, crises ( sick kids, joblessness, injustices, etc)..and cannot remember ever being "depressed" ! I WORKED at many hard jobs, and was always very busy doing all kinds of things... Always moving....no time for being a victim or thinking gloomy thoughts ! The lecture is right on! I think Americans are being conditioned to be dissatisfied and self , and other critical. Many addictive drugs are actually what people do to find happiness and deal with depression. Again, the message is right on! I earnd a BS, MS, and doctorate over years of work and school... I retired from 20 years prison mental health services. Work...look outwardly.... have loving interesting people in your life.....have hobbies, help others, read good books... for example: Victor Frankl "Man's Search for Meaning" Paz

[@khwaac]

You obviously didn't have depression

[@guitarhero-z2m]

Thanks I need to hear this sir. God bless you and may you live out a good prosperous life 🙏

[@Tctiffany]

depression is loving Covid-19, stay home, stay alone...

[@The5th-zero]

it was fine for me - social anxiety was actually ok for once

[@olivierm2888]

@@The5th-zero most people suffer from general anxiety, and it indeed has gotten worse for most people this past year.

[@wittywolk]

@@The5th-zero you'll have only worse social anxiety after pandemic so I guess no, it wasn't (isn't) fine for you, you only think so because you don't have to fight to overcome it (temporairly)

[@DepressionTalks1]

One of the most helpful TedTalks still to this day. Really helped me out. Thank you.

[@nicolebjn]

Social media and technology created depression, I don’t remember my parents or anyone else being depressed when I was young, people had something to actually live for. Now we all live online, it makes me sick.

[@lemostjoyousrenegade]

🎯❗️

[@homi7760]

depression is the most horrible thing i ever had to deal with in life.

[@НаргизаКарабаева-е4в]

How did you heal your depression?

[@cloudstrife206]

Наргиза Карабаева I haven’t

[@lazarmaria9171]

@Jack Snow please try TMS

[@HansSilver]

I suffer since 2004 my life is miserable

[@dante7869]

I hope this passage helps someone: my time playing poker had a surprisingly profound influence on the way I see life. The beauty of poker is that while luck is always involved, luck doesn’t dictate the long-term results of the game. A person can get dealt terrible cards and beat someone who was dealt great cards. Sure, the person who gets dealt great cards has a higher likelihood of winning the hand, but ultimately the winner is determined by-yup, you guessed it-the choices each player makes throughout play. I see life in the same terms. We all get dealt cards. Some of us get better cards than others. And while it’s easy to get hung up on our cards, and feel we got screwed over, the real game lies in the choices we make with those cards, the risks we decide to take, and the consequences we choose to live with. People who consistently make the best choices in the situations they’re given are the ones who eventually come out ahead in poker, just as in life. And it’s not necessarily the people with the best cards. There are those who suffer psychologically and emotionally from neurological and/or genetic deficiencies. But this changes nothing. Sure, they inherited a bad hand and are not to blame. No more than the short guy wanting to get a date is to blame for being short or the person who got robbed is to blame for being robbed. But it’s still their responsibility. Whether they choose to seek psychiatric treatment, undergo therapy, or do nothing, the choice is ultimately theirs to make. There are those who suffer through bad childhoods. There are those who are abused and violated and screwed over, physically, emotionally, financially. They are not to blame for their problems and their hindrances, but they are still responsible-always responsible-to move on despite their problems and to make the best choices they can, given their circumstances. And let’s be honest here. If you were to add up all of the people who have some psychiatric disorder, struggle with depression or suicidal thoughts, have been subjected to neglect or abuse, have dealt with tragedy or the death of a loved one, and have survived serious health issues, accidents, or trauma-if you were to round up all of those people and put them in the room, well, you’d probably have to round up everyone, because nobody makes it through life without collecting a few scars.

[@jeffreykendall1025]

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has been the best activity I have ever found for feeling great (after feeling sh*t before walking in). Meditative, social, full body work out, great cardio, personal development which gives a sense of achievement...

[@johannatheone]

Thank you Stephen for working on this! I suffer from depression in periods of my life and I can best describe my experience as being trapped inside a glassbox with declining air and mist all around. I cant get out of the box and I slowly suffecate and everywhere I look is mist and absolute hopelessness, self hate and shame. In the Amazon they dont have depression at all. As soon as someone feel blue they gather for a ayahuasca cermony and heals the person. I truly hope the answer is out there..maby in a comination of plantmedicin, organic foods, less lonliness, nature, less stress and guilt and more spirituality and love!!

[@littlelup1585]

Plant medicine healed my depression

[@aphysique]

Tina Mina Tell us about The Jungle vine you are referring to..Mother ayahuasca? Wish I had the money to such..heard there are a few churches in The states? not sure bout that though

[@knowledgeisthepower1]

Most depression could be mitigated or or at least kept short-term if people had much better support systems. I blame the advancements in technology and the change in the family unit!

[@soullessdevice]

Why doesn't your comment have a thousand thumbs up? You hit the nail on the head here. Family is often the only the support an individual will get; at least until he/she has strength to make his or her own.

[@ucdailoi]

Landi YEP!!

[@lemostjoyousrenegade]

🎯❗️PRECISELY!

[@GabeSyme]

"Society is making us depressed" Ok cool man how should we change society to fix this? "Idk lol but here are the individual lifestyle changes you can do to compensate" oh...ok : )

[@shainaariane4334]

Yes, I was wondering this too! Like, I want to see him spearhead some kind of public policy program to actually make it easy for people to live differently from how we are right now---for example, making k-12 education include many hours of physical activity & social connection rather than having a primarily intellectual, test-oriented lifestyle dominating people's childhoods!

[@DeeMolition]

Yes, I haven't found a single video here that says anything real or helpful about depression.

[@marinagimenezleal]

Here's a question for you: do you think the people running the world are more interested in our well being or making money off of our misery? If you're a smart person you know society gravitates around money and as long as there's profit being made it's not gonna change... and why would it? Change does start at an individual level. You can't magic think your way around it.

[@DeeMolition]

@@marinagimenezleal I agree, Marina. If there is no profit in changing the situation, it won't be done.

[@Laura-jx7il]

@@DeeMolition we need more hand-on approaches on how we can and want to change society. I believe it’s possible but we need to organize & discuss

[@SpiritofSix]

Video aside--I've just read some of the saddest comments on here. It is really painful to see that people struggle this hard: some of the ways in which you all have articulated the current state of affairs in your own life and your own outlook on the world is depressing (not in that same vain) to read. So here's my two cents. Life at its most basic level is a gift; something given to each of us without first paying or giving anything in return. It is the ability to experience--good and bad. What this life is, barring the physical limitations, is entirely undecided until we each try to give it meaning. "Meaning" is a human concept: if the world sucks, if people suck, if your life sucks... it is because we are all at fault in some way. Everything will be connected in some way because there are innumerable amount of causes for any given event (a lot of different, seemingly unrelated things have to exist and occur for each event in your life to happen). All I mean to say is that we need to stop running away--stop with the denial and the nonsense and just look in the mirror and look outside, and see humankind for what it is. We must accept reality to begin to change it. If we are not all partially to blame then who is at fault? Why do we diffuse responsibility? I cannot run anymore and I don't want to see others run as well. If something is not right, fix it. That is all, if you're interested in hearing any more (and it pains me to continue) check out my stuff--I try to talk about any subjects that help myself and others grow as people. No more, no less

[@Lisa58Mc]

ofSix ditto that!

[@Lisa58Mc]

ofSix some need to visit the local homeless shelter & listen ...they will quickly see just how lucky it’s not themselves!

[@jenniferbussiere3716]

Oh my goodness...I've been looking for this confirmation for so long !!! I finally feel validated ..thankq ..this gives me hope that I'm not completely " crazy" ..I've been saying this for years .." im not made for this world " ...thankq ..now my next step is to figure out how to thrive again I hope

[@dariodestefano94]

This is incredible because I clearly noticed being less depressed, having more energy etc in periods when I was eating chia seeds!

[@hildiehofmann4658]

who would not be depressed in such a police state. If you were not, you would be insane. You are ok, you need to get rid of the powers that are controlling you with FEAR and hatred of 'the other.'

[@MarginalSC]

As long as your needs are met, I doubt you're care what government you were under.

[@Aethuviel]

We are wild animals shoved into a world we were never shaped to cope with. Of course that is going to have consequences. I think the ideal society would go back to the self-sustainable ways of our ancestors, with community and a sense of purpose, but *with* modern medicine, decreasing the worst killers in tribal societies as well.

[@thuanotaku9047]

The world in which you say is call Naruto, One Piece, Bleach without the "Supernatural Elements". It is so ironic that it hurt

[@underground_man]

I know you wrote this 4 years ago, but I felt compelled to respond. I think your concept is ideal. If we were only looking to be healthy and didn't care to save the sinking ship of society, we should all move to the wilderness and become hunter-gatherers again: the "jobs" we were adapted to do. The problem I see is that modern medicine is directly embedded in the structure of civilization. It's completely dependent on the continued existence of the school system to educate the doctors who administer the drugs and the chemists who make them, the government to prevent poison from being passed off as medicine, and the drug company facilities without which not one splint, band-aid or pill could be produced. And there are so many other elements within society which are necessary for the production of medicine, such as everything else the government does, everyone else the schools teach, and all the other companies which make all the non-medical things that medical companies use. Therefore you might as well say that you need ALL of civilization just to make one dose of morphine. The greater issue is this: do we want to go back, or move forward? Going back to the forests of antiquity would be better for us, but to do it without modern medicine is unacceptable; if we move forward, we keep civilization, but we will have to change it. I'm surprised that Dr. Ilardi didn't mention the option of genetic modification. This is solution I think is most viable. There is a lot of trans-humanist nonsense out there, but I'm no utopian. I just see it as inevitable. What I mean is this: if we humans were adapted for an existence that came to an end 12,000 years ago, and it takes millions of years for us to naturally evolve to fit our environment, why not speed up nature? (that's an understatement). I think that within 50 years, this will be a real issue and not just people idly debating about hypothetical "designer babies", which are merely people with purple eyes or similar superficial modifications. Imagine this: you want to be a hunter-gatherer with modern tech, specialized on fishing. You want to live off the water, and you decide to have some kids. It would make sense, in that context, to give them gills (in addition to lungs if that is possible), so they are more adapted to their environment. Or, if you are going to specialize in harvesting fruit from tall trees, make your kids really tall with different material structure for their bones and hearts so gravity and the atmosphere can support them. This is all speculation, but honestly it seems easier than trying to cast away civilization and somehow keep medicine. But the darker possibility is that of runaway artificial intelligence that will destroy humanity. Elon Musk has said and continues to say that A.I. is extremely dangerous - so dangerous that he announced a few months back that his latest project is to develop implantable memory and processing "upgrades" for the human brain. He said he's doing this not merely because it will make us smarter - that would be true - but he heavily implied that it will be to increase our chances of survival in the world of the future, which could be populated by cybernetic androids of general intelligence surpassing that of a human being's. Therefore, upgrades like these, in addition to radical genetic modification, may be necessary for our survival, not just the treatment of depression.

[@puffalump76]

Cant live off the grid..one has to work to pay for the land

[@maxwellmerzoian6122]

Interesting. My view is that everyone dies at some point. Even with all the modern treatments death still comes. I’d prefer to live a full soulful life that is half as long than a long and soulless life.

[@joshuahecht9273]

Depression feels like a funeral for your brain

[@Ladyblue7620]

I know that this is not supposed to be funny but it made me laugh

[@colinfraser8020]

Nope, more like being reborn and realizing you are worse as a result, and it keeps happening. Like the opposite of an epiphany.

[@keriallen2711]

I agree! It is so dark and you can’t stop no matter how you wish you could

[@erniebuchinski3614]

I've never heard it put that way, but from experience I'd say that's as good of a way to put it as any. All the best to you in your battle.

[@healthyone100]

@@keriallen2711 its rough for me today!

[@MarioVesco]

Surely one of the most interesting and compelling speeches I've ever heard!

[@KishwarKhan07]

Thank you so very much. Loved it. One of the most useful Ted talks I’ve ever seen.

[@adrianmonk4440]

(1) Trolling def_1: WHATEVER. (2) Trolling def_2: To drift in a boat dragging a fishing hook. MEANING I HAVE SEARCHED NUMEROUS TED TALKS ON DEPRESSION & this is hitting the nail on the head. I have suffered from depression since childhood & read extensively. This is great content.

[@ramirenriquez6795]

This is true and now I'm seeing what depression really is. The other challenge we're facing in this modern time is how to be okay being on your own. Knowing the people around us are either occupied or uninterested with their environment, the light-hearted ones get affected and there goes another future depressed person on the list. It's also an epidemic.

[@dblackpillespanol1255]

"Progress" is not eternal. People will realize that in the end we cannot eat bills and pennies.

[@vicsoyars3675]

Absolutely agree to everything he discussed and suggested most importantly excecise

[@annmarieknapp]

Have lived with this since I was a young teen. Add several traumatic events and loss and its like living in a surreal version of what I thought life would be like. I used to exercise like a maniac to self medicate, but it is harder to do as I get older.

[@annabelllu]

I'm depressed because of life situations and having no friends. Nothing I do can change these situations or give me friends.

[@johngavins2613]

I know life sucks hang in there for me please :)

[@ruiwang7176]

I'd like to talk if you want.

[@healthyone100]

fall in love with yourself take up a vegan diet and fasting thats what i did!

[@AudiophileTubes]

This man is absolutely BRILLIANT! Erich Fromm, the great, late German psychoanalyst and author, wrote about societal complexity and alienation and unhappiness, caused by contemporary market based cultures, in many of his great books written a few decades ago. Some humans can cope, and others simply can't. We are NOT all capable of dealing with the many incongruencies and complexities of a fast paces, unnatural, alienating culture that we have created in our industrialized, cold, alienating, results driven world!

[@AkashIndoliya]

I accept the challenge-will read at least 6 hrs.daily and 45 minutes of exercise and pranayam.I will be a better version of myself after 90 days. And I will come in the comment section after 90 days and share my journey.

[@bananbananowy3552]

how did it went?

[@myoosef]

It's definitely one the greatest TED talks ever!

[@Scorned405]

It’s not about depression. It’s about who man’s up and pushes forward and mans up

[@Ash-zp7ey]

He said that we need to exercise but when depressed we have no energy to get out of bed

[@uu4715]

that is why we need friends and family to help us get out of bed

[@deborahbunnell6645]

I have no friends I’m 64 and had this all my life. I feel like I’m dying and soon 😢

[@HansSilver]

@@uu4715 when I was teen all my family eat together

[@cherylblaha8911]

That’s how I feel

[@atwaterpub]

1:46 "Depression is the main driver behind suicide which now claims over one million lives every year"

[@atwaterpub]

One million suicides a year. One MILLION.

[@atwaterpub]

ONE million suicides a year and nobody cares? THAT is a crime against humanity.

[@debbiealcimasrules9418]

@@No._1_Karen i agree

[@joqiii3]

@@No._1_Karen Agree.

[@randomrandomnesss2188]

I’m in the military. I’ve gone to my command’s psychiatrist for a very crippling case of depression I’d been suffering for years. The only reason I went was because I had a spur of inspiration, and wanted to try anti depression medications since I’ve researched all the cognitive behavioral routes. I was handed pamphlets telling me to exercise and try not to have bad thoughts. I can’t articulate just how much that crippled me. I had thought I was finally going to get help, and maybe beat this. That was a year ago and I haven’t tried again since. If anything, asking for that help made everything so much worse. Thanks for listening to my TED talk.

[@stefannr1302]

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven