The Real Causes of Depression | Johann Hari

The major TED speaker on addiction, Johann Hari suggests that depression isn’t caused by a chemical imbalance in our brains but by crucial changes in the way we are living. For Johann, this opens up 7 new potential paths out of depression and anxiety - ones that are very different to the paths we have been offered before.
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[@HowToAcademyMindset]

See more of Johann here! kzbin.info/aero/PLFIigLLitqDmHNCeELslj5srl5w-1IH-7

[@nmnicholasmiller]

Mc

[@mikemccord72]

This guy probably saved my life. I struggled on antidepressants for years never addressing the actual reason why I was depressed. I took control of my life. I engaged socially got fit and love life now.

[@kritikasingh7992]

Guess I'll never know what that's like, the *after*

[@clairefrancis9606]

That’s a real achievement. Well done! 🙏

[@carolellamuch9571]

It totally makes sense

[@carolellamuch9571]

Giulia S. When do you feel the most depressed? During the week when working? Weekends when feeling alone

[@lonelysoul121]

@@kritikasingh7992 @Kritika Singh social, that's something doesn't works well judging based on where you hail from. The people are narrow minded there and still have to overcome blind beliefs, but in western world people are more mature. I recommend be in a educated group rather than in general, you will overcome like I did.

[@rlavender9684]

"They didn't need to be drugged they needed to be together." Wow spot on. This video needs to go viral around America.

[@tammywidcamp5949]

As a severely depressed person searching for help, this is hands down the best talk I’ve ever heard.

[@heekyungkim8147]

Same here.

[@MisterMister5893]

Lots of depressed people.

[@bignige]

What a wonderful thing to say, fantastic 👍

[@safaj5917]

This is wonderful. Could you share how this helped you break the vicious cycle? 🙏

[@janinedaniell1967]

Do you have problems sleeping? either getting to sleep OR staying asleep for 8 hours at least? if so, you should try serotonin reuptake inhibitors...prescribed my Psychiatrist- life chaning and saving

[@Mine-yu7mz]

"We need to stop asking 'What's wrong with you?' and more to ask 'What happen to you?'" Thank you Johann Hari

[@Cindihful]

Wow! I recently have gone into a moderate depressed state. I know that I need a community, yet with the pandamic, I'm not able to get on with life!

[@torriepenney936]

Yes...what happened today gers skipped...other desires going on? Too many things to focus on is what's subtracting from interacting. It's needed that we notice one another, not just what we are "doing".

[@torriepenney936]

@@Cindihful was in dancing group. Lots of other problems ( pandemic info, strains) caused changes in schedules. Other class members wd cancel.. wasnt enough ppl week to week. I needed the interaction. Went to a swimming pool..better to possibly converse than not at all! I also attend church. Not going to people s homes- their protecting kids, are stressed. Has been frustrating while living w a teen son that's on his computer.

[@svitlanafedchyshena8782]

I have been in therapy for 8 years discussing what had happened (nothing super traumatic), it didn’t help.

[@berserkerbambi6094]

58 minutes "I'm not saying I did it you can too, that would be cruel". Finally not another one of those! Thank you.

[@torriepenney936]

Yes. They aren't supplying you with something palpable, aren't connecting to you as a whole person. Why do people who "succeed" appear to have forgotten when they weren't succeeding? Its like they can't relate about then, they might Slip back to being like that? It seems they re insecure and now Hold onto the new identity. This does not assist the ones that want to make meaningful change. Real mentors can do teaching, recognize being unsure in others and get beside the one who is attempting to improve. That does something...accepts that someone is ok whatever "point" they are in.

[@lillyshalom8050]

Finally, someone speaking truth. It's utterly saddening how this day an age most people are highly desensitized due to social media, advanced technology, & materialism. I've noticed that people prefer texting than to engage in stimulating conversations in which the tone of the voice creates all kinds of emotional senses. Texting is necessary sometimes. It becomes a huge problem when it's the only method of conversation used. Thank you for sharing this video🌹

[@annesabourin6122]

Yes I find eye contact and voice tones give more information about another then the texted blurbs!

[@Xrusha_]

Totally agree!

[@philipchesleyiii]

I hate talking to people on the phone and perfer to text. Also a 17 year addict.

[@cherylgabriel9551]

Discard comment option

[@mattdowling5127]

"Protect yourself from your own thoughts..." Rumi

[@mattdowling5127]

@@giarkmonkeybot1909 Sounds like you're in a World of trouble buddy, maybe your depressed!

[@dickhamilton3517]

depression and anxiety = lack of control, or the inability to shape the circumstances of your own life. I've been saying it for years and know it from my own experience. But most people when told this look at me as if I am mad.

[@christinebadostain6887]

Yes! My own experience has told me similar things, but the "experts" are the ones to whom people listen.

[@l.j.7540]

It is so true.

[@glennvandenberg3912]

Probably the most concise description I have ever heard.

[@hayk3000]

@@christinebadostain6887 because "the experts" don't analyse only your case, it's more complicated.

[@cfrka114]

You’re not mad buddy. Its actually a very good way to frame that.

[@justinmcneil659]

This is the best lecture on depression I have ever heard! Thank you for sharing this.

[@sanataj]

Usually the American self-help psychologists say that you need to take responsibiility and solve your own victim mentality thinking. Some say you have to discover the true inner self you were born with before life intervened and led to distorted "core beliefs" being formed about life and ourselves.

[@livepeacehawaii7781]

I incorporated Montessori, Suzuki, Steiner, Sir Ken Robinson ... in my classrooms. Closed the door ( admin. Watching me) we moved about freely, music and art ~ singing! And our organic vegetable garden. The secret is ‘What makes children want to learn? ‘ ~ what makes them happy, joyous and free? Let them ‘follow their passion’ ♥️

[@viclloyd1]

As a fellow teacher I agree with you. The only problem is the public schools crazy obsession with DATA. Data is the enemy of the child. Good teachers like you are the solution. Don't let them find you out.

[@rebekahmcAlister]

Amen!!!

[@annesabourin6122]

Yes yes yes..out of the box. Creative learning styles magical

[@malmay999]

I was wondering for 6 years why nothing is working. Taking " happy pills " didn't help. They want me to take more and more and I always knew that is not what I should do. You just confirmed what I always thought. Everything is more clear and does make sense. This is the best lesson about depression.

[@ndiekwere6027]

So glad I watched this. I need a community not more and more money. I am going to work on a balance.

[@andchat6241]

Ndi, just started watching this video..but saw your comment..I can only say I hope you're doing well finding 'a balance'..understanding is always a good start..

[@Nezuko_yoyo]

Yes. Balance

[@andchat6241]

yan zhao... Have you got 'A Balance'...& if so..any suggestions for other people looking to find it?..A C

[@prepperjonpnw6482]

I need more money so I can buy a community and I will pay them to care about me and meet my basic needs lol

[@sammyspataro6469]

Balance is key to create strong mental health.

[@tamarajessup1398]

My parents needed me to be happy. Whenever I wasn't, I felt ashamed because I wasn't fulfilling my purpose. I didn't belong with other children. I didn't know how to have conversations, to care for and about myself and others, because meeting their need for me to have "a happy childhood" superceded everything else. I barely knew who I was. And I virtually always feel very sad. Schoolwork wasn't much of a challenge because I was very bright. I was given no concrete responsibilities, was subject to no stated expectations or goals. I won't go into what happened after this in detail, only express my gratitude that this man took the time to crack the code with regards to depression and thanks for this presentation. WE ARE WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO US as long as we neglect to resolve the issues caused by the past. I'm making my way through a life I've decided to create rather than just reacting to an existence over which I feel no control. Mental health is a challenge, but I'm blessed with people to whom I've reached out who care and about whom I've learned to care. Faith is more a part of my life than ever before, though I've struggled with the notion that God loves me. May we all find our way home.

[@dROcITYkING11]

Wow. Very interesting. Thank you for the share. I can relate to almost every event you mentioned and seems our childhoods were similar. Perhaps one day we'll have a cup of tea together. My apologies for the short, simple sentences barely woke up lol. Thanks again for the proper college+ grammar and spelling, have a sweet day.

[@gansonaki]

We had nearly identical childhoods. I ended up with borderline personality disorder though, and I gotta tell ya.. I think I’d choose garden variety depression over BPD. However! I am currently working through things and have chosen to do the same-processing through my childhood traumas so I can have control of my life for the very first time. You’re very right about the necessity of that. Keep up the work, and so will I !

[@ellyess7203]

Tamara Jessup: I am so sorry to read about your unhappy childhood and your struggles now. At least those of us who reach out here, as you have done, quickly find we are not alone and that there are so many people who completely understand what we are going through. I allowed people to walk all over me all my life without realising that it was making me depressed. I was always blaming myself, because my abusers told me I was not good enough. I am currently dealing with some issues from the past and as Johann said, the acknowledgment that I was abused and the understanding that it was a terrible thing to endure by a decent and caring person has made a massive difference to me. I am so glad you have Faith, I was so blessed to have a Near Death Experience and I know beyond any questioning that God loves us, is right there and we shall see Him in all His Glory. I also felt the wonderful amazing love. Yes, God loves you! Never doubt it, never feel unworthy of it, just trust, like a little child. Do remember, we are struggling in this world against a very cunning devil. The devil is fighting harder than ever at this time to gain souls to his evil ways and will try to make you doubt God and have all sorts of fears that do not come from God. I learned this in my brief journey to God and back. I did nt completely arrive, I was almost there at the wonderful light then had a wordless message "Now is not the time". My newborn baby had survived. I was needed to be her mother. She is now 46! I have never forgotten that experience and have felt so close to the Lord ever since that day, despite the many terrible and traumatic experiences I have had. If you need something to remind you that you are never alone, carry something in your pocket or bag. I had a carved angel. I do not believe in items like that having powers, but it simply served to remind me that God is always nearby.

[@euphoria5670]

Tamara Jessup kissi

[@euphoria5670]

Tamara Jessup siå

[@austingode]

I've had depression for 3 years.... I used to read everyday now I haven't read a book in 2 years .... but at least I quit Facebook a year ago

[@dawnschnack3576]

I havent read a book in 6 yrs.it all sucks depression

[@elizabethblackwell6242]

Get off and keep off social media. It's the Continent of the Stupid.

[@trashcanhands19]

Yeah, I used to enjoy reading quite a bit, but for a few years now I have to force myself to read for even 10-15 min a day

[@gabriellakosa488]

I can relate to the book reading. But there is hope :). At some point in our lives we go through a crisis and we can experience depression for years, because we don`t know what we are going through. We generally feel lost and have lack of direction. This can seem like a really dark place, I`ve been there myself too. But it is just a transition time between life stages. We move from one stage to another, therefore the things we enjoyed before, might not be as enjoyable as they were, temporarily. And when we are not feeling well, chances are we spend too much time with social media etc to escape. Good job that you quit facebook. Once I was over the crisis and the depression was lifted, I built my life back and now I m enjoying reading again! So it is possible :)

[@austingode]

Thanks 🙏 to everyone for the replies

[@rebeccajones9757]

A doctor allowing a patient to talk about trauma and acknowledging it was wrong is so powerful.

[@austingode]

I've spent far too much of my life doing things for other people..... from friends they just take , from strangers it's often appreciated

[@deborahhebblethwaite1865]

rob dog the trouble is with having expectations from friends. With strangers it is in the moment without the expectation. We need to treat our friends like strangers......responding in the moment

[@attorneyeranbenezra-immigr3829]

"If you can't bond because you're traumatized, isolated or beaten down by life, you will bond with something that will give you some sense of relief"

[@kirk1007]

Yep and it will likely be something awful like alchohol which makes it so much worse

[@paulinewhitehouse2568]

Absolutely

[@kayligo]

@@kirk1007or a narcissist

[@irenerobbins4789]

My voice students say that voice lessons is an antidepressant. Expressing yourself. Being creative. Learn to be strong through strengthening if your voice. Standing straight. Believing in yourself. Belonging to a creative supportive sub community. Thank you so so much. I'm sharing this widely.

[@mikelarson8786]

I agree. Voice is a huge factor in my life and in helping with depression. Vocal warmups alone will make for a better day.

[@Babesinthewood97]

Yes I agree: when I've been singing in a choir, or dancing, I'm quite happy. But, it's social. It's both belonging and expression, isn't it.

[@lunetelalune2783]

I agree completely, my voice lessons were my weekly therapy!

[@irenerobbins4789]

@Mad Miranda of course severe psychological problems most certainly should be treated by experts. A certain way to boost your well being and confidence and creativity is practicing an art ..especially voice. With that certain approach 😁

[@irenerobbins4789]

@@alegriart you can use your voice actually to work through all this especially if that is where the emotions have settled. Opening up the voice can help release this. If the hurt is so deep it may require a psychologist present. If that group doesn't accept you find another group

[@laralebeu36]

This talk is gold! I could never imagined this. The key insight is that modern mental illness is created on a societal scale because of lack of human interaction due to increasing digital interaction and less tribal living.

[@rickwoud4319]

also because of our meaningless jobs and the lost connection to our spiritual side.

[@mattdowling5127]

“If happiness always depends on something expected in the future, we are chasing a will-o’-the-wisp that ever eludes our grasp, until the future, and ourselves, vanish into the abyss of death.” Alan Watts. Slow down in everything you do, slow down...

[@jared_per]

I have seen a lot of people in depression related subreddits who mostly talk about their need for love and belonging. Society has been telling those with depression that we don't deserve love, or that we are toxic in relationships. I think this causes these individuals to dismiss something so important and something that they need in order to minimize their harm to others.

[@sammyspataro6469]

Another cause for depression is beating yourself up over past regrets or trauma that was out of your grip. What's helped me and other's is to create the belief that you are not the experiences. But rather the growth in the future by empowering yourself with nurturing beliefs and an empwering action plan.

[@annesabourin6122]

How did you learn this? Was it from a book? Therapist? A trusted friend? Where do you gather information about self empowerment ? Do you test out the theories and keep a diary of what has worked for you? How do you protect yourself from your own thoughts? Especially negative self talk? Do you have a friend or a group of 5 people you can talk about those thoughts? Curious?

[@liznaik2803]

We do need to have a basic level of self-care, in order to help ourselves by helping others. Feeling we are enough, respecting and loving ourselves are in fact basic needs.

[@annesabourin6122]

How did you come to learn this....it’ rings true for me too!

[@liznaik2803]

@@annesabourin6122 I trained as an RTT therapist with Marisa Peer (Rapid Transformational Therapy) and read Johann Hari’s amazing books. In RTT, we learnt that some of the fundamental causes of depression are believing we are not enough or lovable, and not belonging. These beliefs can begin from events we experience even before birth in the womb. In RTT we use hypnotherapy to find the root cause and then change the belief. No amount of anti- depressants can change the root causes. Johann Hari talks about other causes too, where belonging, recognition of value and having a future in society are key. But in all cases feeling we are enough and loving ourselves remain basic needs.

[@ExpressionsofAwakening]

@@liznaik2803 Wow, love Marisa Peer. This is so true about isolating the issue, often. I have struggled with food addiction most of my life until one day I decided to ask what part of my body was holding the cause of it? It was at my breastbone, I then intuitively with eyes closed, asked what was there. I got an image of me as an adult on my knees crying because I had wanted more of my mother's love (as a child), and I longed so much for more love from her and then, within a second, I quickly saw myself go through the stages of grief and what was most healing was the final acceptance stage realizing that I would never ever ever get this love from her because she didn't know how to give it. She was too wounded. But at that moment of devastation of accepting this, there was peace, there was me being with me having the courage to hear this part of me and be there for her and I knew I was loved.....by me. It has now been 3 weeks and for the first time in my life I am not obsessed with food not longing for it at all. I just feel normal with it. So I guess I did a kind of RTT for myself.

[@liznaik2803]

@@ExpressionsofAwakening Awesome ❤️

[@chiefseattle9158]

First time I have come across Johann Hari. What a pleasant compassionate man. Must get his books.

[@offshoretinker]

When the student is ready, the teacher will arrive.

[@lesleycooper4596]

What a brilliant bloke, he is so right, lack of community.

[@andyjame7317]

I have attempted to meditate many times in my life and prior to this CD the only success I've experienced is with live guided meditation. kzbin.infoUgkxzpa8CIfZcihW4Z0F_ja0QF3W9KIatrsq This is the first CD I've used that cuts through my unmedicated ADHD and enables me to truly relax and experience a quiet and energizing interval. The instructors voice is very soothing and pleasant to listen to. I am easily able to sit successfully through the entire CD, and for quite some time after. I cannot adequately express how tremendously helpful this CD has been on my spiritual journey!! Two thumbs up and 10 stars!

[@tessadavies1238]

Very interesting. Our work culture is so often disempowering and we are often ruled by incompetent narcissistic if not psychopathic managers and as a result most people in these situations become depressed. Its not easy to escape this if you are paying a mortgage and job opportunity is limited. Great talk, many thanks

[@elizabethblackwell6242]

Agreed. We're conditioned to find meaning in work. 50 years ago men did not seek this. They wanted to provide for their families. Now if we're not really fulfilled by work we think something's wrong. When I tell people that I've never really loved what I do people are shocked because I'm successful. Mostly work is putting up with the stupid, lazy and venal while biting down on mind numbing boredom. I'm a senior executive.

[@jeffinerd1]

Stable Life -God bless you for your honesty. Are you ready to do something else? I am making my plans to.

[@elizabethblackwell6242]

@@jeffinerd1 Well no. I'm sticking it out until I reach the desired number in my bank account. I don't buy into the 20th century myth that we can all pursue our passions. Frankly some people's passions are just downright stupid and most of us have not the talent nor the sheer drive to pursue our interests (I love dressage for example. Couldn't earn a living at it). When I finally leave the corporate world, when I have enough funds, I'm going to pursue my interests but not until then. Now I'm working to live.

[@ExpressionsofAwakening]

@@elizabethblackwell6242 Ha! I couldn't help but laugh. So true, I have met so many amateur artists that there is no way anyone would pay money for their goods...But ideally if we someday do have a universal income, and robots and AI take over everything, I think their pursuits (in place of work) are ideal if it brings joy to them.

[@Scorned405]

Exactly. Job opportunity being limited being the key word. That’s the position I’m in. Yet everyone is telling me I have a “ negative attitude “ and I’m a “ Debbie downer” and that I have plenty of job opportunities. At 51 years old with no higher education you have very few job opportunities. Yet everyone tells me I’m being a negative Nancy etc.

[@nicholaswoolfenden5254]

Depression has increased with our obsession with devices which has a disastrous effect on human communication.

[@deborahhebblethwaite1865]

Nicholas Woolfenden thankyou. I have been saying this for years. The internet has positive gains if you use it and it doesnt use you. Constant dinging on these devices and having to answer texts, emails etc is turning people into zombots. My word.....

[@frisbeeshawn5356]

Yes everything is mostly digitized instead of humanized .. That's the difference ..

[@ShapeshiftedCow]

It’s been steadily increasing since long before the internet and handheld devices came along. Getting rid of Facebook and cell phones would help a lot of people, but it wouldn’t solve depression in modern society by any means.

[@sameoldthing4037]

I already know why I'm depressed...I don't have a life!

[@armoredgirl7564]

Same

[@armoredgirl7564]

@Spasovski Mihail that’s incredible man. Thank you

[@armoredgirl7564]

@Spasovski Mihail I am behind in school due to a bunch of health issues. How old are you if you don’t mind?

[@lorigirl65]

"Junk values." I love that concept. Describes my problem with hoarding exactly.

[@lordp0rnstar]

Lots of episodes of different hoarding programs on ytube. They really inspire you to declutter your house and your life. The feeling you get from decluttering a room/rooms, or attic is quite liberating. It makes you feel great if you donate it all to charity too. Good luck, God bless 🙏

[@kirk1007]

It describes my futile obsession with my appearance and youth

[@theaansel8738]

What a beautiful soul. The perfect messenger

[@lesliepfeifer8518]

I'm sorry to say that people are my biggest problem. The choices I've made in friends and lovers. Always been bad. My x coworkers have been narcissists. My x husband too. I love animals..way better company.. I like people, I just feel better when they are not around. People have hurt me so deeply my whole life I just don't trust them.

[@abelmcguire6252]

I can deeply relate and if it weren't for my strong belief in reincarnation. That gives me an even deeper perspective of how to except a more well-rounded solution without being the victim with my Karma, I'd feel more hopeless! I work very intimately with people for there own recovery in their health matters. So I won't abandon that which I love and the people who keep me seeing the little me in the mirror is not the one who needs to have an answer to my feeling upset with others.

[@lesliepfeifer8518]

@@abelmcguire6252 your right...I still think people suck tho..for the most part..I'm not a victim, it's my own shit, I get that...I'm 54, I'm just over it. 💖

[@silverman824]

yep, as I get older I become wary of people. Misanthropy seems to be waiting for me at the finishing line!

[@zeromailss]

I believe that in general man are good, but the few minorities that are not could ruin lives if you are unlucky. It really is unfortunate what happened to you but such is the world we live in

[@lorraine3879]

Know how you feel.

[@Peanuts76]

No matter what i do and try, i keep coming back here, searching something to help, to relive or just to ease my deep sadness.... Idk why i keep crying every single night, alone, i feel lonely, having no one to trully connect, i feel so lonely, i wanna disappear ...

[@pontiffsulyvahn3898]

How you doing these days?

[@icegypsy58]

listened to this today during mental crash. it really makes sense, and is very inspiring. Thank you for helping.

[@annesabourin6122]

That is powerful...words can actually heal your trauma...interesting indeed! How has it done this? What were the specific phrases or stories? Why did it work. And for how long?. They say physical exercise is the most effective and quick anti dote to depression! Have you tried exercise?

[@emilymathews7073]

The books have some offputting reviews esp second half but I’ll see how this video goes. Love the accent. Wouldn’t exactly throw him outta bed for eating crackers.

[@goldfeversalon86]

The most important he said is "shame is directly related to depression" that is my case .

[@erin4387]

I realized today how much I don't love myself and how much so many people around me I love that don't love themselves- that broke me. This was perfectly done. Absolute masterpiece!!! I'm so happy I'm already making changes to things. I'm a well-educated woman; 31 sexually abused terribly. The one common thing I held on was education, like-minded people who understood that I needed to be heard. My family backed me up into therepy. and validated every trauma when I spoke up. I still have these issues daily, anxiety now, etc, and I realize I don't have time to still blame myself. I'm in grad schoolworking in a book and changing my entire life. I've realized today I've valued education all along, time alone at home with my son and husband. I enjoy walks and stolen moments. Today, I realized I loved myself through the trauma and that, to me, is the most intimate thought I've had today!

[@shannonkringen]

i need animals too- i bond better with animals than humans

[@candikane9271]

Most people with depression do ❤

[@Nezuko_yoyo]

and shane dawson

[@aegeanbo]

Many of us learn about love through our relationship with animals.. That is why we need animals. Just watch what happens in an old folks' home when volunteers bring in a dog to cheer up the people there. The whole place becomes alive!

[@clairew4288]

They’re more predictable..you’ve been hurt a lot by humans..they don’t judge you

[@clairew4288]

I wouldn’t have made it through life without cats. All social mammals need warmth and connection. We’re social mammals too.

[@amjPeace]

I had depression, I didn't listen to it. Numb, empty survival. Entered deep depression, turned a deaf ear. Profound depression, continued to stumble through each day. Inevitably hit rock bottom and fell apart, could no longer deny that I had some really difficult decisions to make about my life. The doctor offered me a prescription yesterday, but I didn't want to go back into numb, empty survival, I want to live. Thankfully, she listened, she really listened. My decision, reached only yesterday, is to take the prescription for a time in order to get my strength back so I can stop the dark thoughts, stop crying, stop gasping for air. To get back on an even keel so I can make some important changes in my life. The good thing that came out of all this is it has made me acutely aware that seemingly happy, healthy people that you meet every day may be in the same boat, trying to stay afloat, with water pouring in faster than we can bail it out. We're all in the same boat.

[@carcar5643]

Johann Hari is incredible. So articulate in getting the message across. I feel so strongly that this presentation should be made mandatory for the whole world to see. Profound!!

[@raven77737]

There are as many different reasons for depression as there are the people that get depressed .No two cases are the same . Some physical reasons ,some external , not in our control . Control seems to play a large role in feelings of depression.

[@ndiekwere6027]

best 1.5 hours I have spent today

[@rustysmalls]

I cultivated a holistic approach to defeating depression. First, and the jewel in the crown, was studying Buddhism and vispassana insight meditation. Understanding ego, expectation, change, impermanence and becoming the observer to my thought processes. The rising and falling of emotions and thoughts, rarely getting tangled up in them. For me, a bonafide spiritual practice is essential. I also changed my eating habits, reducing processed foods, eating more of a whole food diet and taking regular exercise. Playing more guitar has helped, since I almost stopped at one point, as I was indulging in more instant gratification like movies, television and internet, which I have now thankfully reduced. All of this has definitely elevated my consciousness to the point where I am content being in my own skin, not craving those destructive indulgences

[@Scathingly]

Johann Hari is truly one amazing speaker.. His command of English and his quickly paced, superbly articulated style of delivery was picture perfect for presenting a wealth of information on depression-- already growing in leaps and bounds. We can invest money in what's fast becoming a serious problem or we can invest substantially more after it becomes the norm. Societally and financially the former seems like the most reasonable option. . Kudos for posting!!

[@rosiethebear300]

What a smart likeable man! Thank you for sharing this.

[@katd114]

Your Berlin story really should be a great movie. Thank you for sharing such awesome truths.

[@CJ-ft9yo]

Kat D yes i thought i could sew Cottie in a movie too !

[@nuruddinshah684]

Stop asking what wrong to you. Start asking what happened to you..... That itself is powerful.

[@fist-so-big77]

I'm falling apart. I'm alone and I don't have any friends or family. I work I sleep I sit in my apartment and stare at the floor and cry. Someone please help me.

[@higgsfieldinthefield9916]

I was homeless and pretty much ate nothing at all for four years and I didn't die, it was hell but You can go a very long time with no food. I regularly fast for a few days at a time, It can do you a lot of good.

[@juntjoonunya9216]

With the right attitude sounds like homelessness would be therapeutic

[@higgsfieldinthefield9916]

I am glad I went through it. I learned a lot about myself as a survivor

[@era8010]

Wow. I was homeless several times. I slept on sidewalks in California and occasionally on the beach. People who meet me now have no idea. My quest for truth has been intense. I fight for truth. I've suffered for gping against the stream but it was because I intuitively knew better than the stream and I now find more of my type of stream people. I don't regret my rebelling. I regret not trusting myself more. Yes I suffered. I'm not sure there was a way around it. I had symptoms I didn't know how to heal. At the core. I had no money and I was an alcoholic. I listen to Esther Hicks and her approach on God and addiction was a breath of fresh air amd a relief that resonates with my every cells. I feel for the homeless and addicted. It just hurts us more to be disconnected than others.

[@healthyone100]

@@era8010 i've been a vegan for 34 years and have fasted many times and still got depressed, it runs in my family my brothers have my father had it, i take meds and pray to God day and night, is it a chemical imbalance i don't know!

[@palapalak.8907]

C ool

[@Rocketscientist66]

When the life and people you were committed to for over 25 years disappear (keyword divorce), I find myself scared to trust anyone. I protect myself through isolation. It‘s safe here, but definitely lonely. How can I depend on anyone - or let them depend on me? What are the chances it will go bad? It‘s like finding that needle in the haystack. Someone who ckicks with me, my interests, my personality. It‘s so complex. And at my age I’m even more apprehensive. I know I have to let go of the past & just writing this comment is almost like therapy. It‘s too bad I don‘t see the light anymore at the end of the tunnel. Hope, trust and courage, not to mention finding a new purpose in life are my challenges right now. Wouldn‘t life be great if we could all just be light-hearted, care-free, energetic, loved, in love & posess self-love. Too bad you can’t pick up these things at the corner store. Sorry people if this brings you down, but I do wish everyone very much luck finding that needle if you‘re also searching.

[@carenbackus8229]

I understand what you are saying totally- divorce which is not your choice, and particularly with small children, is like a death but worse, as you have to live with that person and pain rest of your life. Please keep busy and give yourself grace and time- a LOT of time. Try to read and learn from it, you will get though it!

[@duffgordon9005]

I believe for gifted people such as yourself, (your critical thinking) comes as a price, because you know the possibilities. EG OCD folks think of fears no one else out there has ever crossed their minds . But they also use that for new ideas, and how often do we hear of the Commediene's deep in darkness, what irony. So at least you are smart enough to 'entertain ' yourself. Some find exercise is a lifter , get checked for ADHD , bit trust me facing thye fear os paralyzing but the only way for the fear to fo away is to go in your room, and with intent create a panic attack and make t worse and worse, Now I learned this from one of the new thinking OCD docs. What happens is if you do this every time the fear is gnawing at you, THE MIND GETS BORED OF THE FEAR!!! IT WORKS , Ocd being what it is, MORPHS into a new fear, BUT NOW YOU HAVE A WEAPON. Finally , serotonins i believe male that sticking of fears lets them slip away more easily. best wishes

[@imwrong...7669]

Love and understanding is the key.The story about Tunguy made me cry with happiness first time in 25 years powerful.

[@hybby]

"You should always feel like Madonna" Most important part of the video.

[@zadesirius]

I guess you only watch the first few minutes of the video

[@jinglefun1535]

Madonna herself don't have to

[@seriousoldman8997]

I pity you.

[@annesabourin6122]

Fun and I. The moment!

[@IExpectedBSJustNotThisMuchBS]

Hmmm... I once said the greatest gift you can give another is your presence. I'm generally happy and feel, I think, happier than most. Being present and cultivating contentment also goes a long way to experiencing joy.

[@annesabourin6122]

Yes yes yes...we are all interconnected..the greatest gift is presence whether that is listening talking or just sitting with the grief!,,,

[@anniejane255]

COMMUNITY is what we need to bring back in to society. Sure in 2019 in the UK we are an anti religious, secular society but for many years religion kept us together, made us a community. Now we have nowhere to meet and talk unless it's working for a Capatalist society that doesn't care about our mental well being. Let's create more community and less isolation

[@marcushoward6560]

Capitalism, with it's imperfections, allows people to freely meet and talk, freely, with anyone you want, about anything you want; and if said place or group doesn't already exist, you are free to create it.

[@geraldinemoynan7354]

Thanks for talking about this . I have some terrible bouts of depression and I know it’s related to loneliness and a lack of feeling of accomplishment. This is soo common for seniors I need to find my village .

[@321alison]

Geraldine Moynan This is me too. I was really clever at school but due to various circumstances never really accomplished anything.

[@janebrown7231]

@@321alison Then this is the year for you to review your talents and decide which one you most want to develop. And the next day - get started!

[@321alison]

Jane Brown Thank you. Your comment means a lot. I’m thinking about doing A level chemistry. I’m scared but I might just do it. 🥴

[@shyaaammeneen63]

@@321alison Reduce overthinking to feel better especially past thoughts. Your breathing is closely related to the brain [mind] and gives good relief from stress-anxiety. To relax sit on a chair or lie down, neck straight, eyes closed and observe the sensations of your incoming--outgoing breath at the entrance of the nostrils for 5-10-15 minutes or more. Don’t fight your thoughts. With daily practice the mind will relax. No deep breathing needed. Do the practice without any expectations when taking a walk, at work, when reading, before sleep etc. Like me, make this a lifetime daily habit to have a better life. Reduce negative social media and avoid constipation as it affects the mind instantly. Best wishes--Counsellor.

[@erin4387]

How can the 30 year old generation help you all?

[@st2816ven]

The most inspirational talk I have heard for years

[@biologitrololo]

What a decent person, and such a needed message

[@yoso585]

I suffer from depression but this fellow is driving me crazy. Hope he’s helping someone out there.

[@andrewmartin6445]

Snap. I just find him annoying. Hope I never get stuck next to him on a bus.

[@neilweston9268]

: )

[@thumbprint7150]

Yoso - there are a lot of practitioners; choose the one who chimes with you. Johann Hari has a particular style and aappeal, not for everyone. He has obviously helped a lot of people if you read this thread. You might try Andrew Solomon on TED talks for example.

[@carrieangel275]

Being a vegetarian caused my depression, I didn't eat red meat for 25years and was slowly dying quicker, I have steak everyday now with eggs. I don't eat anything refined and have ditched grains, meat, green vegetables and dark chocolate with my coffee, I'm getting better all the time. Good relationships and joining yoga I'm focusing on. We need each other, I have good interests too.

[@AlEtteso]

What happened to you? I'm sorry you went through that. That should have never happened to you. That caring and validation is everything.

[@gennadiyzhidkov5737]

Mate, you're brilliant, thank you. I've had years and years of depression and agree with each and every word.

[@shyaaammeneen63]

Gennadiy, How are you? Why so many years? If you are taking ADS try to stick to the lowest mg. To feel better reduce overthinking. Your breathing is closely related to the brain [mind] and gives good relief from stress-anxiety. To relax sit on a chair or lie down, neck straight, eyes closed and observe the sensations of your incoming--outgoing breath at the entrance of the nostrils for 5-10-15 minutes or more. Don’t fight your thoughts. With daily practice the mind will relax. No deep breathing needed. Do the practice without any expectations when taking a walk, at work, when reading, before sleep etc. Like me, make this a lifetime daily habit to have a better life. Reduce negative social media and avoid constipation as it affects the mind instantly. Best wishes--Counsellor.

[@jennzenn971]

When you think about it. What made us start taking anti depressants in the first place? As in what were the conditions in our life that made our serotonin levels low & our brains wired differently to make us depressed. It makes perfect sense that you treat the underlying condition that brought u to depression in the first place. I think it's a great idea that the doctor in England came up with to put people together that were experiencing depression, anxiety, loneliness. He asks them to meet twice a wk & come up with something to do together l. And give them a sense of purpose. And let them figure out what can they do as a group that creates some meaning in their life or area. They end up turning a waste ground near drs into a beautiful garden.They end up getting out of their comfort zones, meeting new people, making friends, having purpose. It's all about having that connection with someone. I wish more doctors taught like that.

[@shyaaammeneen63]

Jenn Zenn , H ow are you? To feel better reduce overthinking. Your breathing is closely related to the brain [mind] and gives good relief from stress-anxiety. To relax sit on a chair or lie down, neck straight, eyes closed and observe the sensations of your incoming--outgoing breath at the entrance of the nostrils for 5-10-15 minutes or more. Don’t fight your thoughts. With daily practice the mind will relax. No deep breathing needed. Do the practice without any expectations when taking a walk, at work, when reading, before sleep etc. Like me, make this a lifetime daily habit to have a better life. Reduce negative social media and avoid constipation as it affects the mind instantly. Best wishes--Counsellor.

[@SReegs2023]

The food we eat drastically has an effect on our moods

[@r8chlletters]

We need to also address how some are affected by hormones either as developing into adults or in menopause. These times of life are some of the most challenging and are often treated with antidepressants when that is not necessarily what is needed.

[@reeves326]

Wow, what a fantastic talk. Thank you Johann!

[@zeromailss]

Different thing but somewhat related, in my case it is school, book and reading. School taught me to hate reading, studying and learning in general. After high school, I didn't go to college right away and decided to rest for a year or two, I don't have much to do and my friends are busy with their new college life so I do what I used to do to waste time, playing games, but I got burned out after a month of doing nothing but gaming, literally waking up, playing games, eat and sleep. So I tried to do other things, and one thing lead to another I end up getting hooked up in reading a novel, it was a fantasy light novel that is easy to understand even for people like me who never touch a book before, after finishing up the book I get the urge of wanting more, I'm not satisfied, it was so good and I want more of it, luckily I have a friend who loves reading and I know he has read the novel so I asked for a recommendation for something similar, and he gave it to me, on top of that he gives me a link for a site where you could browse an online web novel with similar genres, as well as a forum to have a discussion or maybe if I need to ask for a recommendation from people in the community and that is where it all began Since then I have read hundreds if not thousands of books, I'm also starting to enjoy learning and studying, I watch educational video on youtube all the time from Crashcourse to a more general science related channel and I have to say that fuck school, how can anyone make reading and learning, such an interesting and fun activities that anyone enjoy into something incredibly boring and draining? I used to be miserable and stressed all the time since middle school up to high school and the fact that I feel like I'm forced down this path with no option available to me was the worst kind of feeling, for me at that time school is everything and the only thing, if I repeat a year or if I were to drop out then it will be the end of everything, with no future I might as well just die, so I'm forced to put up with this constant boredom and uncomfortableness until graduation If one day I ever have a child I will never put him or her in such prison

[@annesabourin6122]

Protect yourself from your own thoughts about schooling.....remember you are generating these thoughts Test them out? Are they really truth? Or are they your own anxiety blanketing the truth? Study. Continue reading Reading=praying

[@davidanthony6408]

Being selfish causes internal suffering, whereas being a giving and grateful person heals you and rewards you with a newfound appreciation for being alive (happiness). Gratitude is a catalyst for happiness!

[@jennzenn971]

Damn i keep having to rewind his talk because im reading the very interesting comments!! 😆

[@era8010]

Me too

[@suziselby2120]

Me too

[@natureisallpowerful]

Same im 8 minutes in and only heard something about an apple. Lol

[@annesabourin6122]

Me too!

[@erin4387]

Omg same

[@hfortenberry]

Great talk! I decided to call my best friend, brother and grandmother tonight as a result of this talk and so glad I did.

[@ajsctech8249]

Thoee stories about this Berlin campaign group had me in tears, but in a good way.There is so much hope in that despite cultural and age and social differences these Berliners found a project to work together and find the common aspects to their lives. Never discount anyone regardless of any of the big social and cultural differences. The question is how do we bring more people together in an age of grave political and economic division?

[@TheDickeroo]

From my perspective there is another important component to depression that is never talked about. This component is buried under a blanket of depression that hides the real cause of the problem. It is Repressed Anger. It comes from feeling powerless and unable to compete successfully in this world. Revealing this anger to yourself is the only way to lessen and release it to the universe. That is your responsibility to take action and control over the blanket.

[@rachelbevan7539]

Absoulty brilliant! I will post this to everyone I know and love. There was a saying I heard in AA in the early 90's I'm not sure where it came from...but I used it a lot...'no one ever committed suicide while they were helping someone else'...there is always someone we can thing of that needs a phone call or a visit etc. Thank you I want to get on Amazon and buy your books for my teenage daughter. She may read them now or not or pick them up in the future.. but I want them available for her! Big love🌍💖🌎xx

[@Babesinthewood97]

This is the truth one feels intuitively... always have.

[@taildragger53]

At 20.35, what he says about gardening is exactly what gardener Monty Don said and how it helped his suicidal depression. This is a great video. Thank you.

[@annesabourin6122]

I love gardener Monty Don great shows on gardens!

[@LisaMaryification]

Depression comes and goes for me. I've been depressed since I was 10. I don't know what caused it. Maybe from my so-called mother punching me too hard in the head. But at 23 I finally couldn't take it anymore so I went to see a psychiatrist and she put me on medication and told me to come see her twice a week. She moved away shortly after I had my first baby but made sure I was set up with a new doctor. I saw her for a few years but then I moved away with my kids to study for my masters. It was dark and cold there, literally and figuratively. I remember sitting on the kitchen floor just crying. Finally, we just left. We came back to our original hometown and I wernt back to my doctor. But I had this terrible guilit of quitting school. A neighbour of mine suggested cipralex. The medications I had taken were okay but nothing that great. However, within a week of starting cipralex, the worrying and guilt were gone. Until then, I didn't really advocate medication that much, but one cannot say that anti depressants don't work. However, I think the caring from that neighbour and my doctor and them just listening to me helped just as much.

[@Keepersoftheflame]

Addiction... depression.... can we give this genius another world problem to tackle and a whole support team!?!? Why is it that the people worthy of a cult like treatment never get it... he is actually solving and breaking down problems... From the bottom of my heart dude. THANK YOU!!

[@zujaja1406]

😮❤1 1:16 8

[@zujaja1406]

😅😂4😂9❤ 1:16 3

[@zujaja1406]

4r3😅59792😢😢8403🎉😢2

[@zujaja1406]

😂36

[@zujaja1406]

8 1:16 1:16 2😂😮😅64😮1❤4mi

[@helenl3772]

This is the best lecture, the best time for me, and so profound for me. Thank you

[@EliEli-xf5vz]

Johann really brings the main messages across! Listening to him feels good.

[@keesvandermeijden]

Really true story, I would like that therapists watches this video. My wife is suffering of a severe depression for over 4 years and no therapist ever touched one of these items.

[@TorEtCetera]

Bravo, Johann. This is beautiful and brilliant. Thank you.

[@iluvhammys]

What a genuine and passionate man Loved the questions at the end as well, very engaging

[@cantido56]

This talk gave me a lot of hope in the future

[@marvonhil]

Absolutely brilliant Johann Hari, thank you for giving this talk..

[@carolellamuch9571]

I totally love this guy. This makes so much so much sense!!! Psychiatrists are lazy or they just don't care. Yes they do help some people but they're a lot more that they don't. It's important to send someone to therapy first for a couple of years then psychiatrist should be the last option

[@petererickson5848]

I advocate the naturr/ nurture cause for depression. Some people do have chemical imbalances,but we have to consider our entire live.. the big picture. Depression is complicated.

[@TheWenniejjj]

It is.. 💯

[@lsb9098]

I’ve listened to your ‘Hari Talks’ all afternoon. Thankyou….I have been struggling with my attention, depression and such for years & your research is enlightening! Namaste🐈‍⬛👍

[@Lena_80.08]

Incredibly described social construct and its value in life! People unfortunately are driven often by the toxic needs and not spending enough time to reflect on its impact on inner confidence.

[@pachamama8586]

Thank you very much for uploading and all the best to you!!

[@RobertaPeck]

Melania and Donald are both creative, brilliant , family oriented, non drinkers and non smokers,who believe in loyalty and love of American values; beauty and financial expertise are just part of a natural appeal.

[@MrMollypockets]

Johann Hari, a breath of fresh air mate.

[@sireopossom7860]

I have depression passed to me, imagine that. But the more I read, the more I learned how our cognitive works, how our body works, and how useless all of this is the more I could put consciousness over matter and just live till I die. No fuss, no drama.

[@catbookfashion]

really liked this discussion; so applicable, thank you, Johann. will look into your books

[@blairheating]

Johann Eduard Hari (born 21 January 1979) is a Swiss-British writer and journalist.[1] His journalism has been the subject of accusations of plagiarism, due to numerous cases of him including quotes from other sources as if they were said directly to him; something Hari initially denied but later admitted.[2] He was identified as, and later admitted being, the author of pejorative edits (under an anonymous pseudonym) of his critics' Wikipedia pages.[3][4][5] Hari's Orwell Prize, awarded to him in 2008, was officially revoked following charges of plagiarism and he was asked to return it.

[@thumbprint7150]

Yes, and he admitted and has paid dearly for his misdemeanours. That does not invalidate this work on depression. IN fact you can be pretty sure given his previous history that he will have been careful to credit everyone correctly and doublecheck sources. He has paid for his errors and deserves a second chance. Listen to his message and if it is useful to you, take what you need from it.

[@tinosantos67]

www.theguardian.com/science/brain-flapping/2018/jan/08/is-everything-johann-hari-knows-about-depression-wrong-lost-connections

[@Malky24]

@@thumbprint7150 He was forced to admit it. That and the fact he tried very hard to discredit his critics implies inherent dishonesty and his past mistakes guarantee nothing positive in his future endeavors. He deserves a chance at redemption but his integrity has been badly tarnished, it is something that will stick with him for the rest of his career.

[@419ariel47]

Per his theory living in the village is best. I grew up in a communist country. Living in “the village “ was imposed by the government. In accordance with this theory nobody should have ever been unhappy or depressed as we all did everything for all others never for one own. I was a medical doctor doing 15 on calls per month and getting paid only for 3 or 4. Was l happy and professionally fulfilled as l was helping others? For 11 years I did not know better. When the communism failed first reform was to pay all our working time. In less than five month l made enough cash to buy me a car( which before definitely I couldn’t do it ). When l counted how much waste of my work time stress whatever is translated in monetary compensation for my youth given to the communism régimen than yes l became not only very depressed but MAD and very ANGRY. I felt abused when l realized that a welder was paid 7800/ mo and me as a highly qualified orthopedic surgeon I was able to barely make all together about 3000/mo( local money of course). Truth about depression is somewhere in between regarding “the village”. I totally agree that we as humans we are to have a REAL( not virtual in media) social life and have if not a lot of human connections ( friends family) at least a dog or a cat to fulfill our need to give and receive affection and attention. We need to live in “the tribe”. At the same time too much of it will take everything from one as individual. I have the vague feeling that this man promotes a lot of socialism: fortunately history time and time again demonstrated that imposed socialism/ the general welfare of all/ it is a failure and an utopia. Otherwise we all are good. Let’s all plant a garden! In d times that was one therapy used a lot in psychiatric facilities in my native country( we did not have funds for medication so we used whatever was easy and self sustaining: patients would work for their own food/ mainly fresh produce while in the hospital. It was call ergo-therapy and it did work.

[@janebrown7231]

@@419ariel47 Thank you for your perspective, it's very interesting, especially as many commenters do not have anything like your experience. It's an eye-opener.

[@lobintool]

BTW: I dearly hope it will never happen but if for some reason I find myself in a fix and I need help, you are the journalist I would want in my corner!

[@taraghaffari2862]

I like Mr Johann Hari Alot.he talks so good And is very smart. ❤

[@bobbidipasquale9043]

Amazing lecture. Thank you!

[@nastialover180]

thank you for this! you did such a good job!

[@julieann128]

What is being said here is so important, even revolutionary. I believe that at least equally important is self-care, which encompasses a myriad of components, such as physical training and adequate sleep. How I recently accidentally started combining both angles has been by training in a stationary place in a park. As walkers and runners pass by, we greet each other. This seemingly little dynamic has made all the difference for me.

[@TheWenniejjj]

Sometimes a smile or a hello can mean so much

[@OoSingeroO]

Most important point for me: I think it is very important to reflect, which of our values are intrinsic and which ones are extrinsic.