John Glanvill • Anxiety Specialist & Researcher • Anxiety • OCD • Bipolar • ADHD • Energy • Online Treatment Course • Sensible Spirituality

What is Depression & what can you do about it?

In this 38-minute video, I share my journey of overcoming depression and what I learned along the way. We delve into the concept of epigenetics, which indicates that depression is not solely determined by genetics; rather, it is largely influenced by our environment. 

Goal of video

In this video, I will discuss what I have learned in the last 20 years about depression and the things that are in our control to help manage or lift its effects on us.

Plus, I no longer have depression, so I know change is possible.

We explore epigenetics, which states that depression is not fully a genetic condition – it is more environmental. You don’t get depression because you have the same genes as your parents; you develop the condition called depression because you think and act in the same ways as your parents, therefore expressing the same genes as them…

Therefore, how can you think and act in new ways to reverse those gene expressions?

Key messages

Every study on happiness (the opposite of depression) points out that friendships, laughter, community, family, creativity, movement, purpose, and meaning lift depression.

What we think and how we respond affect the chemical soup we reside in, thus calibrating our cells thus affecting what moods we experience.

Our cells adapt to the environment they experience; therefore, we will lose receptors for happiness peptides if we stop releasing those happy hormones!

It may take six months to reprogram the receptors on your cells, so be patient and optimistically placebo yourself often so as to release the more positive peptides (molecules of emotion), thus changing the chemical soup within you.

Calmness may be a better goal to aim for (in the beginning) rather than happiness.

We must re-evaluate our victim stories and out-of-date “if only” stories from the past.

Stop using how you feel as an excuse not to do things that will obviously be good for you, like exercise and being social.

If you have a story that you would never try anti-depressants (SSRI’s) – you may be missing out on a tool that might just give you enough of a lift to make the changes you need to make in your life. They take about a month to kick in, and you can stop them if they don’t work.

A Holistic Perspective on Depression: Attitudes, Social Bonds, and Meaning in Recovery

Depression is a complex and deeply personal condition that impacts individuals on multiple levels—emotional, social, and existential. While conventional treatments such as medication and therapy are essential, a holistic approach to recovery emphasises the importance of mindset, interpersonal connections, and finding meaning in life. This perspective views depression not solely as a biochemical issue but as an interplay of thoughts, relationships, and purpose.

The Influence of Attitudes and Mindsets on depression

One key element of a holistic approach is understanding how attitudes and thought patterns shape the experience of depression and its recovery. Depression often manifests through persistent self-critical thoughts, feelings of hopelessness, and a tendency to focus on worst-case scenarios. These patterns can trap individuals in a negative mental loop. However, cultivating a positive and growth-focused mindset can help disrupt these cycles.

Shifting attention toward gratitude and self-compassion can provide relief. Gratitude encourages individuals to recognise the positive aspects of their lives, even during challenging times, helping to balance the overwhelming focus on the negatives. Self-compassion, on the other hand, involves treating oneself with kindness and understanding instead of judgment, particularly when experiencing setbacks. By practising these attitudes, individuals can foster resilience and create a foundation for emotional healing.

The Role of Social Connections in depression recovery

Strong social bonds play a crucial role in mitigating the effects of depression. Human beings are inherently social creatures and feelings of isolation and disconnection often accompany depressive episodes. Unfortunately, this isolation can intensify the condition, creating a downward spiral of loneliness and despair.

A holistic approach highlights the importance of fostering meaningful relationships to counteract the isolating effects of depression. Whether through friendships, family ties, or participation in community activities, building and maintaining connections can provide a sense of support and belonging. Even small steps, such as joining a group, engaging in volunteer work, or simply reaching out to a trusted friend, can create a lifeline to emotional support and reduce feelings of alienation.

Discovering Meaning and Purpose

Finding meaning in life is another critical component of holistic recovery from depression. When individuals feel disconnected from their values or lack a sense of purpose, it can exacerbate feelings of emptiness and despair. Reconnecting with meaningful activities, goals, or beliefs can reignite a sense of purpose and direction.

Activities that align with personal values—such as helping others, exploring creative outlets, or pursuing long-term ambitions—can restore a sense of significance and fulfilment. For some, spirituality or philosophical reflection may help provide a deeper understanding of their place in the world. Meaningful engagement creates a sense of contribution to something greater than oneself, which can be a powerful antidote to the existential aspects of depression.

Integrating the Approach

A holistic perspective does not dismiss the value of traditional treatments like therapy and medication but rather complements them. By addressing the broader dimensions of depression—thoughts, relationships, and meaning—it encourages a more comprehensive and sustainable path to recovery.

Recovering from depression is often a gradual process, requiring patience and self-compassion. By fostering positive attitudes, nurturing social bonds, and seeking purpose, individuals can reconnect with the richness of life and move toward a renewed sense of well-being.

This course teaches you how to apply all these perspective so you may change in to a person where depression might struggle to take traction.