This podcast episode discusses the difference between trauma and chemical imbalances in regard to depression and mental health, stating that 30-40% of people will experience extreme trauma that can lead to states of distress, but are not necessarily diseases.
The trend of people living longer has reversed due to preventable lifestyle diseases and deaths of despair, particularly affecting those between the ages of 24 and 65. Mismanagement of mental health portrays it as a disease and contributes to the issue.
Mental illness is not on the rise and it is incorrect to state that one in four people are either depressed or on antidepressants according to experts. While adverse circumstances and grief can cause trauma, it's important to avoid using labels that may further stigmatize those struggling with mental health.
The narrative of chemical imbalance being the only explanation for mental disorders is not accurate, as many individuals who experience extreme states of mental distress have trauma from abuse or war, which goes beyond being classified as a disease. This narrative needs to be challenged to provide more accurate and varied explanations for mental health disorders.