Is Modern SOCIETY Making Us MORE Anxious? #61

The Breaking Point Podcast UK

Luna Kalm is an anxiety and health coach specialising in neurodivergent conditions such as autism and ADHD. Join us as we explore the rising tide of anxiety in modern society, addressing the myriad of stressors contributing to this phenomenon. We discuss the economic pressures of maintaining dual-income households, the relentless comparisons fueled by social media, and the growing sense of responsibility toward environmental issues. Through personal anecdotes, we highlight how societal chaos can impact mental health, and ponder whether the extremes of contemporary life might be more harmful than a balanced existence. Our host shares a candid account of their struggles with fibromyalgia, anxiety, and depression, shedding light on how neurodivergence has shaped their coping mechanisms. We then transition into a discussion on family dynamics and childhood trauma, revealing how managing fibromyalgia symptoms through rest and recovery from prolonged stress brought significant improvement. We delve into the intricacies of growing up in a high-stress environment marked by parental bickering, perfectionism, and emotional suppression. The conversation uncovers the lasting impact of a narcissistic mother, the challenges posed by having a sibling with a different father, and the responsibilities shouldered by children. We underscore the necessity of emotional support and mature parental guidance, especially for sensitive children, and acknowledge the varied experiences within a family unit. Finally, we tackle the complexities of parenting, resilience, and truth, examining the inevitability of parental mistakes and their role in fostering personal growth. We discuss the importance of providing love and support to children while recognizing the subjective nature of truth and the significance of communication in understanding diverse perspectives. Additionally, we explore how societal expectations influence neurodivergent individuals, particularly focusing on the challenges faced by those with ADHD. The conversation emphasizes recognizing and addressing neurodivergent traits to support individuals better, ultimately leading to more fulfilling relationships and personal growth. CHAPTERS: (00:04) Rising Anxiety in Modern Society (16:11) Family Dynamics and Childhood Trauma (28:32) Parenting, Resilience, and Truth (33:42) Neurodivergence and Societal Expectations (40:35) Navigating Narcissism and People-Pleasing (52:51) Transformative Life Lessons Through Adversity