I am grossly unqualified to answer with any a amount of expertise. That said, I think there are a few things that contribute to or magnify depression and anxiet

I am grossly unqualified to answer with any a amount of expertise. That said, I think there are a few things that contribute to or magnify depression and anxiety in rich countries: Diet and exercise: In the United States at least, we have an abundance of cheap, poor nutrition food. It’s easier to get, and easier to prepare than an appropriately nutritious meal. I’ve been shocked at the effect regular exercise and nutrition have had on my own anxiety and depression. The poor in the country have less time and opportunity to eat well and exercise, and the stress compounds generationally. Cultural expectations and consumerism: Again, in the United States we’ve sold ourselves a vision called “The American Dream” which usually is constructed of home ownership, personal property, and enough money to have both free time and own what you want. This is an increasingly difficult thing for the poor to obtain as property prices increase, wages are (relatively) stagnant, and consumer debt is easy. For the rich, it turns out that money didn’t buy happiness and while your things will fulfill for a little while, that is fleeting. Sense of purpose: There is a prevailing idea that if someone needs are provided for, they will contribute nothing otherwise- they’ll “be lazy”. I think This is untrue, and the reality is that people need a sense of purpose. I think most people want to work, but desperately want to feel like that work is meaningful. For many people, the work they have to do doesn’t feel meaningful, and therefore does not fulfill them. I have a graphic I found somewhere called “Happiness Chemicals and how to get them” which outlines 4 types of chemicals our brain needs (Dopamine, Oxytocin, Serotonin, and Endorphins) and it reminds me that we all need to have meaningful work, have community, take breaks, and feel secure.