The rise of depression and the risk of suicide: Understanding dysphoria in modern society

PROBLEM: Depression is on the rise and can result in the intense despair that underlies suicide risk. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROBLEM: Modern society has changed in ways that disrupt personal life, reduce lasting values, and create a disconnect from close interpersonal relations. It is important to understand the prevalence of despair and the high rates of death by suicide. RESULTS: A comprehensive scoping review identified five relevant factors that play a role in the rise of distress and despair across society. First, many people rely on alcohol or drugs to temporarily suppress emotional reactions. Drug abuse has become commonplace. Further, the over-use of antidepressant medications may result in the social and emotional causes of depression remaining untreated. Second, prescription pills and guns are the most common methods used in a suicidal act and both are commonplace throughout the U.S. Third, many adults struggle with occupational stress and chronic financial worries. In addition, many adults feel their job is repetitive and mundane, providing a source of income but little benefit to person or society. Fourth, many people experience pervasive feelings of loneliness and social isolation, often feeling disconnected from family and friends. Some aspects of social isolation may be related to an excessive use of technology that has changed social interactions in ways that are not helpful. Fifth, many people have been losing hope or lack meaning in life. As society becomes filled with interpersonal conflict, political strife, and suppressed hatred, feelings of hopelessness can grow. Some people have reached a level of fatigue over the assorted crises facing the world today. LESSONS: The rising suicide rates are not a time-limited epidemic, but despair has become endemic to modern society, quietly undermining the emotional lives of many people. Societal changes can promote positive mental health by addressing each of these five factors. KEY MESSAGES: • Mental Health professionals can promote non-pharmacological means of managing stress and depression. • All fields can encourage supportive and compassionate bonds when confronted with people in distress.