We listen to our elders and read that four decades earlier stress anxiety and even depression were not as common as in today’s life, why is this so?
There are several reasons why stress, anxiety, and depression may be more common today than they were in the past:
- Increased demands: Many people today lead busy lives and have a lot of demands placed on them, which can lead to increased stress and anxiety.
- Technological advances: While technology has brought many benefits, it has also led to an “always-on” culture, in which people are constantly connected and expected to be available. This can lead to increased pressure and stress.
- Social media: The use of social media has increased significantly in recent years, and it can be a source of stress and anxiety for some people. Seeing others present a perfect image of their lives online can lead to feelings of inadequacy and pressure to constantly present a perfect image of oneself.
- Changes in society: There have been many changes in society in recent decades, such as increased pressure to succeed and the breakdown of traditional support systems, which can contribute to stress and anxiety.
- Changes in mental health treatment: In the past, mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression may not have been as widely recognized or treated as they are today. As a result, people who may have been struggling with these conditions in the past may have been more likely to go undiagnosed and untreated. Overall, it is likely that a combination of these and other factors have contributed to the increase in stress, anxiety, and depression in recent years.
Contentment is a great virtue to safeguard human greed, do you agree?
Yes, contentment is often considered a virtue because it is the opposite of greed. Greed is the desire for more, whether it be more money, possessions, or power. It is often seen as a negative trait because it can lead to selfish behaviour and a lack of concern for others.
Contentment, on the other hand, is a sense of satisfaction and peace with what one has. It is the ability to appreciate and be grateful for what one has, rather than constantly striving for more. This can lead to a sense of inner peace and happiness, and it can also help to prevent selfish or harmful behaviour.
In general, contentment can be a valuable trait to cultivate because it can help to reduce stress and anxiety, and it can also foster a sense of compassion and concern for others. Many people find that cultivating a sense of contentment and gratitude leads to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Personally, I consider contentment, patience, and thankfulness (whatever we have) as great virtues with which any human should spend his time. Isn’t it a correct approach? Or something else can be added to it?
It is certainly true that contentment, patience, and thankfulness can be valuable virtues to cultivate. These traits can help to reduce stress and anxiety, and they can also foster a sense of compassion and concern for others.
There are many other virtues that can also be beneficial to cultivate. Some other virtues that may be worth considering include:
- Honesty: Being honest and truthful can help to build trust and strengthen relationships.
- Respect: Showing respect for others can help to create a positive and harmonious environment.
- Fairness: Being fair and just can help to build trust and strengthen relationships.
- Responsibility: Taking responsibility for one’s actions can help to build character and demonstrate integrity.
- Perseverance: The ability to persevere through challenges can help to build resilience and determination.
- Courage: The willingness to face challenges and do what is right, even when it is difficult, can be a valuable virtue to cultivate.
- Compassion: Showing concern and understanding for others can help to build relationships and create a more positive and caring environment.
Overall, it is important to consider which virtues are most important to you and to make an effort to cultivate them in your life.
