Mental Health; Back to basics.

By Carsten Ostergaard Pedersen

Having worked intensely with individuals who are having the experience of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation, and spent extensive hours doing research on the topics, there is one thing that I find remarkable; Why do we always look at why people get depressed, anxious and develop a desire for killing themselves?

In my humble opinion, I do find it far more pertinent to the cause to look at why people do not get depressed, anxious, nor wanting to kill themselves.

There are numerous places in the world where depression and suicide rates are close to 0%, and interestingly certain factors are ubiquitous across these societies in the way of:

* A clear understanding of ones IKIGAI, *

* Having a healthy social or community network,

* Give a little bit over and above self,

* Ensuring you are around individuals who value you,

* Have a ritual; Spiritual practise, sport, hobby, interest or the likes.

* A healthy diet; The Mediterranean diet is one of the best templates,

* Moderate exercise routine,

* Being a part of or belong to something……