Stress Overload from Modern Living

Stress Overload from Modern Living

Andrew Weil, M.D., a well-known university-based health expert, presented an article recently suggesting that the stresses connected with modern-day living are a cause of much of today’s incidence of clinical depression. He produces two bits of evidence. First depression rates are much lower in less developed countries that do not have the demands of modern living. Second, even in this country, the Amish have much lower rates of depression--they live withour modern conveniences and expectations.

Martin Seligman, professor at the University of Pennsylvania, was studied the Old Order Amish. It turns out that they have a clinical depression rate that is one tenth of that of other Americans. Says Seligman--"There seems to be something about modern life that creates a fertile soil for depression."

Stephen Ilardi, professor at the University of Kansas, states, "The more 'modern' a society's way of life, the higher its rate of depression. It may seem baffling, but the explanation is simple: the human body was never designed for the modern postindustrial environment."

Dr. Weil feels that its the unprecedented demands of modern life that is resulting in this level of stress. He suggests five tips for dealing with the stresses of modern life--

1. Mindfulness training--a type of mediation that increases a sense of focus and concentration.

2. Sleep well and in complete darkness.

3. More social interaction--make it a priotity.

4. Avoid disturbing sounds--choose to listen to things that have a positive effect on the mood; try to cultivate silence.

5. Reduce information overload--the computer and twitter-living may need to be limited in order to well attend to the rest of your life.

Dr. Weil also suggests exercise, eating fish for omega-3 fatty acids, and not dwelling on negative thoughts.

SOURCE: Newsweek--Nov. 7, 2011