Former President Donald Trump sparked controversy after suggesting during a North Carolina rally that working diligently is the best cure for depression.
"We are just three days away from the greatest political victory in the history of our country, I guess in the history of the world," he declared to the crowd. "But it only happens if you vote. If you don’t vote, then bad things could happen you’ll be very depressed, and we don’t want to have depression right?" He continued, "There’s no depression. You know, the best way to stop depression? Work your a** off. You don’t have time. You want to work so hard that you don’t have time for depression."
While some on social media praised Trump’s statement, mental health experts strongly criticized his simplistic approach.
Andrea K. Wittenborn, Ph.D., a professor of human development at Michigan State University and a specialist in the Division of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, emphasized the complexity of depression, stating that viewing it as a lack of effort is both unhelpful and harmful. "Depression is a complex mental health condition that affects millions of people and is the leading cause of disability," she explained. "The misconception that working harder could prevent or treat depression may further stigmatize those who are affected and discourage them from seeking treatment."
Wittenborn underscored that work can exacerbate depressive symptoms for many individuals due to increased stress. Additionally, she pointed out that the very nature of depression, often characterized by fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and lack of motivation, can make workplace performance difficult.
Rebecca Gould, a professor of psychological therapies at University College London, also condemned Trump’s message, calling it "unhelpful in numerous ways." She highlighted the misunderstanding of depression it reveals, minimizing the very real struggles of those experiencing it by suggesting that hard work alone provides a cure. "If it were that easy then people would be doing it and we wouldn’t have any need for antidepressants or psychological therapies!" she exclaimed. Gould stressed that depression directly affects cognitive abilities crucial for work, such as attention and memory, making it challenging for those with depression to maintain productivity.
Glyn Lewis, a professor of epidemiological psychiatry at University College London, agreed that staying active can be beneficial during a depressive episode, but he emphasized that depression is a treatable illness, not simply a matter of willpower.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that depression affects approximately one in six U.S. adults during their lifetime.
Interview: Time.news Editor Talks to Dr. Andrea K. Wittenborn on Trump’s Controversial Remarks on Depression
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Wittenborn. Thank you for joining us today. Recently, former President Donald Trump suggested that the best way to combat depression is by working hard. What is your initial reaction to this statement?
Dr. Wittenborn: Thank you for having me. My initial reaction is one of concern. While the idea of keeping busy can be appealing, it oversimplifies a very complex mental health issue. Depression is not just a matter of not having enough to do; it’s a serious condition that requires a nuanced understanding and often, professional intervention.
Editor: That’s an important point. Can you elaborate on why suggesting hard work as a solution is harmful?
Dr. Wittenborn: Absolutely. Viewing depression as simply a lack of effort ignores the biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to the condition. It can also stigmatize those who are struggling, making them feel inadequate or guilty for not being able to ‘just work harder.’ This kind of thinking can deter individuals from seeking the help they need.
Editor: Some people praised Trump’s comments on social media. Why do you think his message resonated with a segment of the population?
Dr. Wittenborn: There’s often a cultural narrative around hard work and self-reliance that can be very appealing, especially in challenging times. For some, attributing mental health struggles to a lack of effort can feel like a way to regain control. However, it’s crucial to differentiate between motivation and mental illness—the two are not the same.
Editor: What are the most effective strategies for dealing with depression, as opposed to simply working harder?
Dr. Wittenborn: Effective treatment for depression often includes a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is particularly helpful, as it addresses negative thought patterns. Additionally, support from family and friends, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mindfulness practices can also play significant roles in recovery.
Editor: In light of Trump’s comments, how can we better educate the public about the realities of mental health?
Dr. Wittenborn: Education is key. We need to promote accurate information about mental health and debunk harmful myths. This can be achieved through campaigns that highlight real stories, encourage open discussions around mental health, and provide resources for those who may be struggling. It’s vital to foster a community where seeking help is normalized and encouraged, rather than stigmatized.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Wittenborn, for shedding light on this important issue. Your expertise is valuable in helping to distinguish fact from fiction when it comes to mental health.
Dr. Wittenborn: Thank you for having me. It’s essential that we continue these conversations to promote understanding and support for everyone affected by mental health conditions.