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peterbergmann 's review for:
Lost Connections: Why You're Depressed and How to Find Hope
by Johann Hari
This is the third Johann Hari book I’ve read and it followed a similar formula as the other two, one that is quite effective - identify a common problem in society, debunk that problem’s currently attributed causes with a mix of anecdotal evidence and well-reviewed studies while providing the “real” causes, and offer solutions or suggestions to address those causes. The approach is appealing to me because I generally agree with the views espoused but I’m wary of his style following a Malcolm Gladwell path of “easy science” where it feels more like a journalist than a scientist writing. So long way of saying that I’d like to further examine the science before accepting all arguments here. However, this book’s argument that depression and anxiety are caused not solely by a lack of serotonin (and therefore can be cured by medicine alone) but instead caused by social, biological, and psychological factors together is an argument that seems fairly widespread. The book was clearly organized, enjoyable to read, and carefully threaded the needle on not becoming a self help book (which was a concern I had before reading). I’d recommend this for anyone who struggles with depression / anxiety or has someone in their life who does, which is likely just about everyone!