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49 pages 1 hour read

Lost Connections: Uncovering the Real Causes of Depression - and the Unexpected Solutions

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2018

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Book Brief

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Johann Hari

Lost Connections

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

2010s

Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Lost Connections by Johann Hari explores the social and economic factors contributing to depression, challenging the view that it's mainly a chemical imbalance. Hari, diagnosed with clinical depression as a teenager, weaves personal experiences with insights from doctors, psychologists, and social scientists. He identifies nine catalysts of depression and proposes seven ways to reconnect and find hope. The source material discusses assault, drug addiction, suicide, and mental illness.

Informative

Contemplative

Inspirational

Emotional

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.4

46,820 ratings

85%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Johann Hari's Lost Connections offers a compelling, well-researched exploration of depression, focusing on societal and environmental factors rather than just chemical imbalances. Critics praise its thought-provoking insights and accessible writing. However, some find Hari's arguments overly simplistic and question the accuracy of his scientific claims. Overall, it's a provocative read that challenges conventional wisdom.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Lost Connections?

Readers who would enjoy Johann Hari's Lost Connections are those interested in mental health, social psychology, and the broader societal factors influencing depression and anxiety. Fans of Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell and Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari would appreciate its blend of research, storytelling, and thought-provoking insights.

4.4

46,820 ratings

85%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Johann Hari

A journalist and author who explores the social causes of depression and challenges traditional views on antidepressants, drawing on his personal experiences and extensive research.

A psychiatric clinic in London noted for its holistic approach to treating depression and anxiety by addressing social causes as well as prescribing medical treatments.

A psychologist inspired by personal tragedy, who researched the social factors contributing to depression, particularly among women in London, and challenged prevailing notions that depression is solely a brain disorder.

A therapist who collaborated with George Brown on research initiatives focusing on the social determinants of depression, supporting the idea that life circumstances significantly impact mental health.

A researcher who critiqued the efficacy of antidepressants, claiming they were only slightly more effective than placebos and leading Johann Hari to reconsider his views on depression treatment.

A neighborhood in Berlin that serves as an example of community resilience and connection, with its diverse population working together to rebuild after historical challenges, showcasing the power of social ties.

Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

2010s

Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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