CfP: Capitalism and Mental Health (London, 15 & 16 January 2026)

AI News Q&A (Free Content)

Q1: How does capitalism impact mental health, and what are the historical perspectives on this relationship?

A1: Capitalism has been linked to negative mental health outcomes historically and in contemporary society. Early studies by Engels and Marx highlighted the detrimental effects of capitalist industrialization on workers’ mental health, citing poor working and living conditions. Modern research consistently finds that capitalism exacerbates mental health inequities, particularly among the poor and working class, by prioritizing economic growth over psychological well-being and creating environments of competition and stress.

Q2: What are the opportunities and risks associated with using large language models (LLMs) in mental health care?

A2: Large language models (LLMs) offer novel opportunities for mental health care by providing education, assessment, and intervention on a large scale. However, there are risks, such as the potential for misuse and ethical concerns. It is crucial to ensure LLMs are fine-tuned for mental health purposes, enhance equity, and involve individuals with lived experiences in their development to minimize harm and maximize positive impact.

Q3: What role does social capital play in mental health, particularly in relation to antidepressant use?

A3: Social capital, particularly the cohesion of social networks, is crucial for mental well-being. A study linking antidepressant use with social network data found that individuals with diverse social connections were less likely to use antidepressants. This suggests that strong social ties can act as a protective factor against mental health issues, highlighting the importance of social support in mental health management.

Q4: How does capitalism influence the mental health of individuals in different social classes?

A4: Capitalism affects mental health differently across social classes. While capitalists and managers often report better psychological well-being, workers and lower-level supervisors face higher risks of mental illness due to stress, job insecurity, and lack of control over their work environments. These disparities are further compounded by factors like race and gender, which can exacerbate mental health challenges due to systemic inequities.

Q5: What are the implications of capitalism for work-life balance and mental health?

A5: Capitalism often leads to a competitive work environment that can negatively impact work-life balance and mental health. The pressure to succeed, fear of job loss, and financial instability contribute to stress, anxiety, and burnout. Understanding these pressures and implementing strategies such as setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care can help individuals maintain mental well-being in a capitalist society.

Q6: How does capitalism's focus on economic growth impact psychological well-being?

A6: Capitalism's emphasis on economic growth often challenges basic psychological needs such as security, autonomy, and relatedness, which are essential for well-being. This focus can lead to feelings of inadequacy and dissatisfaction, as the pursuit of profit takes precedence over personal well-being. Strategies that celebrate strengths and foster community connections are suggested to counteract these effects and enhance well-being.

Q7: What strategies can individuals employ to mitigate the negative mental health effects of capitalism?

A7: To mitigate capitalism's negative mental health effects, individuals can prioritize self-care, set boundaries to balance work and personal life, seek social support, and engage in activities that foster a sense of purpose and community connection. Recognizing and resisting the pressures of capitalism can help individuals navigate its challenges with resilience and maintain their mental well-being.

References:

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• Monthlyreview
• Drdesireehowell
• Spectrejournal
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