This thread is a pretty fascinating insight, kind of reassuring in one sense that you are not alone, but frighting in that the scale of these problems is clear. Do you think things are worse now than in the past? Or do you think every generation has felt like this and just got on with it, suffering for the most part in silence?
My own conclusion is that things are worse now. I think to some degree living a simpler more ignorant life had it's merits. Older generations had a lot more religion and community in their lives. Jobs were easier to come by and although probably more physical they required less mental stress. Modern society puts a lot of pressure on you to achieve and "be the best you". At the same time there is no underlying narrative of why you should bother. "For God and country" is no longer a motivator, when life is all about you and you know there is no reward waiting after death it's easier than ever to feel pointless and isolated.
My own conclusion is that things are worse now. I think to some degree living a simpler more ignorant life had it's merits. Older generations had a lot more religion and community in their lives. Jobs were easier to come by and although probably more physical they required less mental stress. Modern society puts a lot of pressure on you to achieve and "be the best you". At the same time there is no underlying narrative of why you should bother. "For God and country" is no longer a motivator, when life is all about you and you know there is no reward waiting after death it's easier than ever to feel pointless and isolated.