Rates of anxiety, depression and other mental health concerns are at an all-time high today. Data from the National Institute of Mental Health shows that over 19 percent of U.S. adults struggle with an anxiety disorder, and around 8 percent of this population has major depression. Both of these rates are even higher in adolescents.

Mental Health in the Modern World

There are many risk factors for mental health issues, and one overarching theme is the general movement away from a natural way of life. Modern life is characterized by many things that are in direct contrast to how humans have lived for thousands of years, nearly all of which can lead to elevated stress and poor mental health, as was pointed out in a research review in Journal of Affective Disorders.

In particular, these risk factors include a high intake of processed foods and a generally nutrient-poor diet, lack of sunlight, poor social connections, suboptimal sleep and lack of exercise, among others.

Beyond this, Western society is also imbued with very materialistic, competitive and individualistic values. These place a lot of stress and pressure on each individual and can further contribute to anxiety, depression and suboptimal mental health.

Community Support, Nutrition and Sleep

In this same review, the researchers also highlighted that, in many traditional or more primitive cultures, rates of depression and anxiety were very low and sometimes nonexistent. Despite harsher, more stressful living conditions, more individuals in these cultures have better mental health, likely due to tight-knit social communities, a nutrient-rich diet, optimal sleep and other lifestyle factors.

At first glance, this information may seem disheartening, since it is nearly impossible to move out of this modern way of life. However, with this knowledge, we can begin to understand, and then implement, the necessary changes to move towards a more natural life.

Small Steps Toward More Natural Living

It can be difficult to change our way of living. A great way to get started is to take one small step, and then work up from there. For example, start to incorporate more whole, unprocessed foods, get out into nature more often, increase time spent with family and friends, make sleep a priority, walk and move more throughout the day, or even simply focus on gratitude.

While these steps are not miracle cures for depression, especially if someone is dealing with severe symptom, studies show that they each yield some degree of benefits, can be easily implemented, and with a much lower risk of side effects, if any at all.

Overall, optimal mental health depends a lot on simply having our basic needs met. Modern society simply does not allow this to happen for the vast majority of people. With a mindful, conscious approach to this issue, we can begin to implement a more natural way of life and take control of our mental wellness.