In this post
Over time, mental health problems change in society and individuals. Some factors of mental health problems may become more or less common as they are linked to societal fluctuations. Here we will look at how depression and addiction have changed over time.
Depression
Statistics reveal that incidents of depression have risen over recent years with the condition ten times more likely to be diagnosed by the 1980s than in the 1940s. However, it may not simply be that there are more cases of depression but that people are more aware of its signs and symptoms because knowledge of psychological conditions, in general, is much higher.
Many people believe that life in the 21st century is more stressful than in previous decades and that this may also have contributed to the increase in cases of depression. Risk factors have increased, meaning that people can become susceptible to depression in one or more ways, such as by having a poor diet, poor housing, financial difficulties and social isolation.
Linked to the idea that ‘modern living’ is more stressful are the findings from a 2007 study by Twenge et al. who found that teenagers have become significantly more likely to be diagnosed with depression than they were in previous decades. Some also argue that depression may be caused by unrealistic expectations that are set by social media that are causing teenagers to feel like failures when they cannot keep up with others who they see on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter etc.
It could, however, be the case that depression is being ‘passed down’ not through genetics but through social learning – children watch their parents or other role models who have symptoms of depression, which they then learn and repeat themselves when they are older.
Addiction
The definition of addiction has been amended several times over the years to incorporate new addictions such as those which refer to behaviour (addiction to exercise or to play video games, for example) as well as the addictions that people usually think of, such as to drugs and alcohol.
Societal attitude towards substances has changed as well – many opiates were once regularly prescribed to people for medical purposes, but now we might consider someone who regularly took morphine, for example, as an addict rather than someone trying to control chronic and severe pain.
As with depression, statistics indicate that addiction is increasing and the media are quick to point out the effect that this has on the NHS and how problems relating to addiction (usually to substances) are linked to higher levels of crime and how too much alcohol causes antisocial behaviour.
Alcohol is much cheaper to buy now than ever before and it is also reported that substances such as cannabis and even heroin are also cheaper, which means that they are more available to more people, which may be one of the reasons why addiction has increased.
Activity – Addiction over time
What is your opinion about addiction increasing in society? Why do you think this might be happening? You might find it useful to research some statistics about this (NHS England have some good information) to help formulate your argument. Make notes of your thoughts.
