Hyper-Individualism and Mental Health
The Emotional Toll and Isolation of Self-Made Culture
The Shift From Individual Care to Collective Support
In today’s world, mental health is increasingly being seen as a shared responsibility—something that goes beyond personal care. There’s a growing realization that our mental well-being is deeply connected to the communities we belong to. This shift is leading to a new way of thinking about mental health, where people are looking beyond their own self-care practices and reaching out to others for support.
But this shift isn’t just about community involvement—it’s a response to the growing pressures of hyper-individualism that dominate much of modern life. It’s also worth acknowledging that this approach to mental health is not entirely new. In many cultures, collective support and community care have always been an integral part of daily life. For centuries, societies have relied on close-knit relationships and communal systems to help individuals through life's challenges. In fact, many cultures continue to live this way, as it’s naturally embedded in their traditions.
People have long tried to avoid the concept of codependency—a term that describes unhealthy reliance on others for emotional support or validation—by becoming hyper-independent. The idea was that by relying solely on themselves, they could avoid the perceived weakness of being dependent on others. However, what many missed in this pursuit was that we don’t thrive by being entirely self-sufficient. We need healthy interdependence: a balance where we can rely on others for support without completely outsourcing our well-being. Unlike codependency, healthy interdependence allows us to share responsibilities while still taking ownership of our own emotional health. It’s about recognizing that mutual support can strengthen us, not weaken us.
Let’s explore how both of these trends—modern hyper-individualism and the revival of collective support—are influencing the way we approach mental health today.
The Pressure of Hyper-Individualism
For decades, society has glorified the idea of the “self-made” individual. The notion that success comes from personal effort, often in isolation, has been deeply ingrained in our culture. From hustle culture to the rise of the “grind,” the emphasis has been on personal responsibility and achievement. While this can be motivating, it also comes with a heavy toll on mental health.
When the focus is entirely on individual success, it can lead to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and burnout. The more we buy into the idea that we must achieve everything on our own, the more isolated we feel when the journey gets difficult. It's easy to look around and think everyone else has it figured out, while we struggle with self-doubt or exhaustion.
This “self-made” mentality often leaves us feeling disconnected from others, as if our worth depends solely on what we can achieve independently. But the truth is, none of us thrive in isolation. We all need support, and it’s this very support that helps us grow, heal, and move forward.
The Rise of Collective Support
In response to the isolation many of us feel in a hyper-individualistic world, a new focus is emerging: collective support. People are starting to realize that mental health isn’t just an individual issue—it’s a community issue.
Community-based support systems are providing a new kind of care. Whether it’s participating in an online book club, local community garden, joining a mutual aid group, or simply creating a space for emotional connection, these collective efforts are reshaping the way we think about mental health care.
The power of community lies in its ability to bring people together, to share experiences, and to support each other in tangible ways. Instead of seeking solutions alone, people are turning to shared spaces and practices that promote healing.
For example, community gardens are not just about growing food—they’re spaces where people come together to nurture something greater than themselves. The act of tending to plants together cultivates a sense of belonging, purpose, and connection. Similarly, mutual aid groups provide essential resources to those in need, but they also create a network of support and solidarity that can be healing.
Why Collective Support Matters Now More Than Ever
The pandemic has shown us just how crucial social connectivity is for our mental well-being. As many people experienced isolation during lockdowns, mental health struggles like anxiety and depression surged. This experience highlighted the importance of community and the need for new approaches to mental health care that prioritize connection. Even now, the ongoing ripple effects of the pandemic continue to challenge us, as many people have become polarized by their beliefs, further isolating themselves from others.
At the same time, there is also a time and place for solitude. Quiet moments alone for reflection and processing are essential for self-awareness and growth. But when it comes to mental health, collective support adds another layer to healing. We all benefit from being part of something larger than ourselves, where we can give and receive care.
For some, though, being part of a community might feel like an inaccessible luxury due to social anxiety, safety issues, mobility challenges, chronic illness, economic restrictions, demanding work schedules, or important life responsibilities. This is why it’s so important to find something that works for you, whether that’s a walk with a neighbor or friend, joining an exercise class, participating in a grief and bereavement group, attending a free weekly recovery meeting, or even finding ways to be around others while still spending time alone.
How to Embrace Collective Support in Your Own Life
You don’t need to be part of a formal community group to benefit from collective support. There are small ways to bring the power of community into your daily life. Here are a few ideas:
Connect with others regularly: Whether it’s a weekly check-in with a friend, joining a local group, or participating in online communities, regular connection is key to building support systems. These consistent interactions help maintain a sense of belonging and cultivate emotional well-being.
Get involved in community projects: Many communities offer opportunities to participate in local initiatives. Consider contributing by volunteering at a food bank, helping organize an event, or participating in neighborhood clean-ups or park beautification projects. These efforts allow you to connect with others while making a positive difference in your community.
Invest in building your support network over time: Reach out to people who understand your struggles. Whether through a support group, therapy, or cultivating meaningful friendships with those who share similar experiences, gradually building a strong network of support can provide long-term emotional resilience and mutual understanding.
The key is to shift the focus from achieving mental health alone to embracing the collective journey. Healing is not a race, and it’s not something we do in isolation. We all play a role in creating a world where mental health is supported by the strength of community.
A Better Future for Mental Health
The shift towards collective support offers a promising new approach to mental health. By breaking down the walls of individualism and focusing on community, we create spaces where healing can truly take root. Mental health isn’t just about self-care—it’s about caring for each other. And together, we can build a more supportive, connected world for everyone.
If you're looking for ways to connect with others and explore these community-based practices, start small and see how it can impact your own healing journey. The more we embrace collective support, the healthier we all become.
Disclaimer: This blog post is not medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical attention, individual therapy, or a professional diagnosis. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personal guidance and care.