In recent years, the number of people in our country suffering from depression has been increasing year by year. Have you felt EMO today?
According to the earlier “2023 China Mental Health” blue book, the number of people suffering from depression in our country has exceeded 95 million, with depression patients under 18 accounting for 30.28% of the total, exceeding 28 million people. This is chilling, why is this happening?
Busy streets of Shanghai city
The latest depression statistics show that Shanghai ranks first with a depression prevalence rate of 11.8%. This phenomenon is influenced by the unique socio-economic environment and cultural atmosphere of Shanghai. As the leading city in our country’s economy, Shanghai has a fast-paced lifestyle and tremendous competition pressure. The latest “China Urban Quality of Life Report” shows that Shanghai residents rank top in terms of work hours and commuting time nationwide, comparable to the capital Beijing. The average daily work hours exceed 10.5 hours, and the commuting time is close to 2.5 hours. Such high-intensity work and lifestyle in Shanghai put great psychological pressure on those striving for a livelihood, leading to the emergence of psychological issues.
Residential neighborhood in Shanghai
From another perspective, the high cost of living in Shanghai is also a significant factor contributing to the high incidence of depression. According to 2024 data, the median house price in Shanghai has exceeded 70,000 yuan per square meter, and rents are soaring. The high cost of living, coupled with the current economic slowdown, is undoubtedly a heavy burden. Many people are facing multiple challenges in their careers and lives. In addition, children’s education is crucial. Nowadays, in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, raising children has exceeded the income of many ordinary people. Overall consumption is increasing year by year, income and expenses are severely imbalanced, and young people are under tremendous pressure, naturally leading to a rising trend in depression.
Teahouse in Chengdu
In contrast, the depression prevalence rate among people in Sichuan is only 3.8%, the lowest in the country. This is closely related to the leisurely lifestyle and relatively slow pace of life of the Sichuanese. Taking Chengdu as an example, teahouses, mahjong parlors on the streets, and weekend lawns have become indispensable parts of the local residents’ lives. They understand better how to spend time and energy to enjoy life, pursue psychological satisfaction, and happiness. This lifestyle not only helps reduce stress but also creates a good environment for mental health.
However, a more in-depth analysis needs to consider the role of culture and social support systems. Shanghai, as a highly internationalized metropolis, has a diverse and complex culture, leading to a certain social isolation. According to recent social surveys, Shanghai residents generally have a low sense of community participation and social support, feeling a lack of belonging and societal support. This social isolation has become a potential factor contributing to the high incidence of depression. In contrast, although Sichuan has experienced rapid economic development in recent years, community relationships are close, interactions between neighbors are frequent, and the social support system is relatively sound. This tight social network greatly enhances residents’ happiness index, helps alleviate individual psychological pressure, and enhances psychological resilience.
Depression patients (Reference Image)
Therefore, we must realize that the high incidence of depression is not only an individual psychological problem but also a reflection of structural social issues. The government and society should pay more attention to mental health, promote healthy lifestyles, provide more psychological support and services. Companies should also focus on the mental health of employees, create a more humane working environment, and reduce excessive work pressure. At the same time, the education system and families should prioritize mental health education, helping young people cultivate healthy psychological qualities and the ability to cope with stress.
On a personal level, we also need to learn self-regulation and find a suitable pace of life. Proper relaxation and reducing unnecessary stress are important ways to maintain mental health. Through joint efforts on many fronts, we can create a more harmonious and healthy social environment, allowing everyone to enjoy spiritual tranquility and happiness while pursuing material abundance. Only in this way can we truly achieve comprehensive social progress and comprehensive human development.
