Is Depression ‘All in the Mind’? Do People ‘Choose Depression’? Feat. Dr. Jingduan Yang｜Vital Signs

In 80 to 90 percent of cases, “people with depression eventually respond well to treatment,” according to the American Psychiatric Association.

Then why does America still have one of the highest rates of depression in the world—second only to Ukraine, based on World Health Organization data?

Do lifestyle choices, like diet, exercise, and social contact influence mental health, or is it “all in the mind”?

Do people “choose depression” through their lifestyles or their mindsets?

Is getting better just a matter of taking the prescribed treatment?

Dr. Jingduan Yang compares the myriad ideas on treating depression to blind-folded people groping at an elephant—each focused on a specific aspect, yet blind to the totality of the problem.

In expanding from psychiatry to integrative medicine, Dr. Yang has sought to bring a “four-dimensional” approach to mental health—incorporating the structural, biochemical, energetic, and spiritual aspects of our being.

On #VitalSigns, host Brendon Fallon asks Dr. Yang, “If depression isn’t ‘just in the mind,’ then what other dimensions must be included in its treatment?”

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Vital Signs’ host, guests, and contributors offer general information on improving health and wellness. This is not intended as diagnosis or medical advice. You should consult your medical doctor or holistic doctor before enacting any suggested strategies for health and wellness improvement, including those in relation to preventing or treating specific diseases featured on this program.