29 Sept 2025
This discussion delves into the multifaceted causes of widespread depression, extending beyond chemical imbalances to include disconnections from meaningful work, deep relationships, inner values, and enriching experiences. A personal formula is introduced, emphasizing the crucial role of proactive action and continuous learning as an antidote to feelings of despair and stagnation.
The speaker shares a personal reflection on past experiences, noting an unexpected shift in their life path, from learning Excel to WordPress, which prompted a realization about life's direction. Despite the topic being unrelated to finance, the speaker felt obligated to share these insights.
Many individuals in the country are experiencing depression due to an uncertain future, compounded by various economic, political, and social conditions. Beyond these obvious pressures, deeper reasons for depression are explored.
The book 'Lost Connections' investigates the causes of depression beyond mere chemical imbalances, focusing on several key disconnections that contribute to mental distress. The author of the book, having experienced depression, questioned if the causes were purely chemical or had other roots.
Humans inherently need to create and engage in meaningful work; a lack of such engagement leads to unhappiness and psychological problems. This applies to various forms of creation, from professional endeavors to a homemaker's efforts, contributing to a sense of purpose.
A significant factor in depression is the loss of profound and meaningful relationships with others. Modern life often leads to superficial connections, making it difficult to find true friends who can be relied upon during times of crisis, as depicted in 'The Death of Ivan Ilyich'.
Disconnecting from one's intrinsic values leads to stress and contributes to a sense of being lost. Aligning with personal values is crucial for mental well-being.
Distancing oneself from nature, art, and other profound experiences also negatively impacts mental health. Engaging with art, for example, is highlighted as a way to prevent emotional distress.
An ambiguous future and an unstable social standing are additional factors that clearly contribute to depression. It is emphasized that not all instances of feeling unwell necessitate medication.
The speaker proposes a personal formula rooted in taking action when faced with negative emotions. Feelings like anger or sadness are likened to a car's check engine light, indicating a problem that requires active repair rather than shutting down the 'vehicle'.
Succumbing to feelings of depression by remaining inactive, such as staying in bed or aimlessly browsing social media, creates a detrimental cycle. This 'swamp' of inaction leads to missed opportunities, erosion of relationships, and an inability to focus on personal values.
A healthy response to stress or depression involves acknowledging these states and actively working through them. The brain often suggests comfort and avoidance, which must be counteracted to achieve positive change.
During adolescence, despite feeling a lack of future prospects in a chosen field, the speaker actively engaged in learning and various activities, embodying William Glasser's choice theory that movement and action are essential for well-being.
Participating in seemingly unrelated courses, such as photography and Excel, initially without a clear purpose, serendipitously led to the acquisition of new skills like WordPress and social media consultation. These skills eventually transformed the speaker's academic and professional trajectory.
As an active participant in the stock market, the speaker regularly attended numerous shareholder meetings of diverse companies. This consistent engagement provided valuable systemic insights that proved crucial for making successful financial decisions, such as selling stocks before a market downturn.
The speaker emphasizes that perceived success was not merely luck but a result of consciously creating opportunities and developing a systemic understanding through continuous action. There is a notable lack of competition in many service sectors, offering significant growth potential.
The core message is to initiate action, even if the 'meaningful work' is not immediately clear. This initial 'start' provides feedback and allows for adaptation, similar to a scientific approach where one constantly tests and revises ideas rather than sticking rigidly to one path.
As one progresses, the importance of networking and building deep, value-driven relationships becomes evident. The goal is to move beyond superficial interactions towards genuine mutual benefit.
The ultimate aim is to live a life of true meaning, avoiding the regret of realizing, like Ivan Ilyich, that one has not truly lived. This involves moving beyond the pursuit of superficial 'junk values' and striving for authentic inner and outer growth.
The brain's primary function is survival, not to ensure happiness or success. Therefore, its natural tendency to seek comfort, avoid discomfort, or suggest inaction must often be challenged to achieve personal growth and well-being. Progress often requires acting contrary to the brain's immediate directives.
Excessive concern with others' opinions or perceived conflicts is a clear indicator of wasted time and a cue to take immediate action. Such focus on external validation or imagined issues signals a deviation from productive engagement.
When feeling stressed, depressed, or stuck, it is precisely the time to take action and get up to do something.
| Key Insight | Description |
|---|---|
| Causes of Depression | Beyond chemical imbalances, depression stems from disconnections from meaningful work, deep relationships, inner values, meaningful experiences, an uncertain future, and unstable social standing. |
| Brain's Instinct vs. Growth | The brain prioritizes survival and comfort, often leading to inaction during stress. True personal growth and happiness require acting contrary to these comfort-seeking directives. |
| The Formula for Overcoming | When experiencing negative emotions or stress, the solution is proactive action. These feelings serve as a 'check engine light' signaling a need for engagement, not cessation. |
| The Danger of Inaction | Giving in to idleness or mindless distraction during distress creates a 'swamp,' leading to missed opportunities, superficial relationships, and deeper personal problems. |
| Path to Success and Purpose | Success arises from starting somewhere, continuously learning, adapting to new paths, and developing a systemic perspective. This 'created luck' opens doors in competitive landscapes. |
