An Attempt in Unburdening of Despair

Have you recently felt despair? Not because of difficulties in your personal life, but because of what's going on in the world? If so, you're not alone, at least according to this article: "Deutschland: Land mit posttraumatischer Belastungsstörung" [Germany: A country suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder]

The article states that there has been a significant increase in exhaustion, depression, anxiety, substance abuse and similar mental afflictions in Germany over the last couple of years. The main reasons are the Covid pandemic and its accompanying measures like social isolation, after which we haven't had the chance to take a breath, but which were followed by the Ukraine war and inflation. On top of it comes the yet to solve climate crisis (and the, strangely almost always forgotten, sixth mass extinction). And now there's the escalation in the Middle East.

The German population obviously isn't the only one struggling with mental health. Jonathan Haidt, for example, has been trying to figure out for a while now, what may cause the increase of mental disorders in young people in the USA. And although it's not his topic, there also is the Opioid Crisis, which surely is no sign for a psychologically healthy population. Although I didn't look it up, I suspect that you would find similar numbers in a lot of other countries.

So, if you're in despair because of these issues, at least you're not alone. That's why we want to invite you to share your burden with others and to hear them out. Likely you won't feel completely unburdened afterwards, but if we're lucky we may have set our minds a bit in motion, because one thing is for sure: A desperate mind is paralysed and in paralysis we are not capable to do anything, not for ourselves, let alone about the mess we're all in.

Since we never tapped so deep into the field of political and societal issues I'd like to point out that everybody is welcome, but nationalism, racism, sexism and other -isms alike are not. On the other hand you might want to be prepared to hear things from people which might make you feel uncomfortable. If so, please don't be too quick to judge and give them the benefit of a doubt.

Please note, that despite this event's intent to talk about feelings that are hard to deal with, this is no group therapy. We are no therapists, just a bunch of people who like to share with others.

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If you've never participated before, here's what to expect:

• 2 hours of deep, interesting conversations in a respectful environment that will elevate your spirit and give you new ideas for life, work or relationships
• a supportive group of people sharing their own unique experiences and viewpoints, and encouraging you to do the same
• a rich mix of newcomers and regulars from different countries and cultures for a broad diversity of opinions and experiences

Please remember the existing rules of this group:

• Do listen respectfully. Don't interrupt others.
• Do show up with a learning mindset. Don't try to win an argument.
• Avoid projecting judgement and blame.
• Try to make yourself fully present. Particularly don't fiddle around with your phone during the conversation.