Book Club — Lost Connections: Uncovering the Real Causes of Depression and the Unexpected Solutions

For the Book Club– Lost Connections: Uncovering the Real Causes of Depression and the Unexpected Solutions

By Johann Hari, 2018

Depression and anxiety are becoming growing epidemic across the globe. This fascinating book by a sufferer explores the medicalization of the illnesses and over-reliance on drugs as a solution. Instead he explores social causes related to disconnection from meaningful work, other people, nature, meaningful values, childhood trauma, status/respect, and a secure future. He includes an impressive amount of research to support each cause, and ends with reasonable, workable, effective solutions for society, communities and for individuals. As a policy advocate, I appreciated a new perspective and how policies can support or undermine general mental health. Both inspirational and useful.