Disorder as an adaptation to culture

The “grind mentality” we see reflected in today’s culture lacks the gentleness and compassion humanity so desperately needs. Instead, society incentivizes the constant pursuit of goals. All too often, these goals are monetary, and once they are achieved - it is seldom ever enough. Thus, we recalibrate our expectations and begin again. In this perpetual state of cat and mouse, we become stuck chasing happiness and are so focused on the end that we scarcely have the time or energy to enjoy the journey.

The notion of “productivity” is embedded into our every day lives. We are socialized to believe that our worth equates to how many hours we work a week, how much money we generate in a year, what kind of job we have, or whether or not we’re home owners. None of which, inherently has meaning. The meaning we attribute to these accomplishments, is that which we have given it.

When I consider these cultural flaws in what we are taught to believe or value, I think that perhaps capitalist societies were not designed with our success in mind. Maybe, these belief systems we are exposed to at such a young age predispose us to burnout, and warrants adaptations to be made in order for us to survive.

Some people adapt through hyper-vigilance and restlessness in the context of an ever-changing world with endless demands.

Others adapt through collapse. Essentially, becoming all too aware of their powerlessness in an environment that does not have their best interest in mind, and choosing to conserve their energy opposed to wasting it on that which they do not feel they can change.

These individuals that deviate from the status quo are often pathologized as “disordered”.

This is not to argue that mood disorders, personality disorders and neurodivergence are solely the result of cultural influences. This is to suggest that it is through the interplay of biological predisposition, attachment and attunement, and societal/cultural influences that “disorder” emerges, and that in my opinion, “adaptation” is a more fitting and more beneficial word to use when describing variations in human behavior and personality.

I think the role of culture in shaping who we are is downplayed. When psychology overemphasizes the role of individual genetics, or individual experiences - we become isolated in our suffering. However, when we consider our collective, shared realities - we become less alone in our suffering.

I believe that the journey of personal growth is one that can not be done alone. It is through connection, and a shared sense of unity that we can begin to heal wounds that were created by the masses. This is not always easy in a world that in many ways, isolates us from one another. Possibly it is the optimist in me, but I have hope that through individual, group, community and global effort - the world has the capacity to foster togetherness and growth, opposed to aloneness and hurt.

Taking the time to slow down in our day to day lives and take care of ourselves, changes the way that we are able to love ourselves, and others, For those that receive our gentleness and compassion, a ripple effect is created. My life’s purpose is to be able to share this experience of co-created transformation with my clients, and to witness the effect that love and connection has on one’s inner and outer world.