Kudos to Dr. K for phrasing his questions the way his audience might. Kudos to The US Surgeon General for responding with such open-minded compassion. You know, like Dr. K.
Fun fact: the office of Surgeon General is a commissioned officer with the rank of Vice Admiral, and the highest ranking officer of the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Officer Corps. Vivek's camera shot here makes him look like just another suit, but he is actually wearing an admiralty uniform, with ribbons and rank and everything.
@uNnHkP8mza It's not of the Navy or has any official operational authority over the Navy, though both the PHS and NOAA Officer Corps use Naval type ranks and uniforms. PHS and NOAA officers also have all military privileges including on-base facilities and military pension. Unfortunately no, I don't understand why this is. They've always been a curiosity to me really.
@uNnHkP8mza The Surgeon General isn't part of the Navy it just borrows the title for its ranked officers because the Public Health Service Commisioned Corps came from the Marine Hospital Service which was a military department and thus recruited from the military. At least that is how I understand it based on what I looked up bc I had that question too.
@@gino14PHS officer here. AMA cause I’m getting out soon. No, we don’t have ALL privileges because we are a “uniformed service” and not an “armed service”: my army bud gets into National Parks free while I can’t is one example (NP employees are VERY explicit about this and I’ve seen them call out PHS officers who try to get away with it). Also, we are weirdly enough an Officer ONLY service. There are NO enlisted PHS uniformed personnel. Also, also: most Surgeon Generals of the PHS are chosen by presidential appointment and just “made” admirals. They are very rarely appointed having been a PHS officer before becoming SG.
Wow this is wonderful!! I’m so glad Vevek (sorry if I misspelled that) has an open mind to go on a stream like this. I can’t imagine the responsibilities he holds and the stress he’s had to deal with especially with all of the misinformation. I’m grateful though he’s in this position. He seems kind hearted and has the right mindset. There’s too many people in power who don’t get it or are there for the wrong reasons, this guy seems like he genuinely cares.
Man Dr. K has come so far, started off with just a random idea to stream on Twitch and now he's interviewing Lord Vivec, Warrior-Poet and God of the Dunmer people of Morrowind. Truly a wonderful success story ☺️
Genuinely fascinating, this couldve been 20mins of why social connection is important and here are the stats across the world but instead the conversation was guided by dr K fantastically into a far more practical set of experiences and thought processes for everyone facing socialising stumbling blocks to consider and implement. Love the content ❤
Exactly. dr K casually playing 5d chess to generate a current day's young person's reaction to what the US Surgeon General was saying and directing the whole thing to turn it into usable content on RU-vid. masterful.
I think even more than that, he showed the Surgeon General his way of speaking and communicating these ideas. I could see Vivek paying close attention to Dr. K and I am sure he learned everything possible from the experience.
@@janeku9776 Not only is he a genius but his self-confidence (opposite of 'arrogance') enabled him to make this conversation into exactly what he needed it to be.
Earlier Dr. K had Achievement unlocked: Top of the Field -Host of the American Psychological Association Who would have every thought a psychiatrist who started on Twitch would have so much influence in his field??
@@rayzerot We're in an online world now, makes sense even if it seems surprising. The internet started as kind of a niche thing all the nerds were into, but it's a valuable communications tool now and has the cred radio and TV used to have with a level of reach that's mind-blowing.
It is so pleasant to see someone in the US government who's not only so well-spoken, but also just... cares? Shame that he is just one person, and the rest of the world needs to put effort into what he is describing
As someone who is really isolated from people, this is so spot on. I mean, when I first got sick, I was SO TOUCHED when I received handwritten letters. I'm actually still exchanging letters with someone, even though we both post on social media as well. It's just special. Also, I often have the thought no one cares about me and wouldn't notice if I was gone. I'm basically here because of my cat. So those small interactions are literally lifesaving. On the flip side, when I'm struggling and reach out, and get nothing in return, it's soul crushing. At least I have my cat.
If you need or want a connection I'll do what I can. And if you'd like resources I have some to share. Please be well. Your Life is worth living to its natural end. ❤
Promoting a good and healthy culture work culture not only helps employees with their mental health but also allows for businesses to strive because their greatest assets are at the top of their game. It's a win win!
@@JoeARedHawk275 If that happens, then people will have time to pay closer attention to what happens in DC and other power centers in the world. I cannot imagine a world in which politicians and high-level corporate leaders would think that is a good idea. The proposition of a less stressed and overworked population with *more* free time on their hands who can then ask better important critical questions of leaders in power ... must seem scary to them. Generally, I think it is easier to dismiss conspiracy nuts who suspect certain things are off in society (about whatever issue) but who do not have the facts. Easy solution: laugh at them. It would be so much better if we were a much better-informed society with facts (and not looney theories). An informed populace is a far more credible and serious threat to those in power who prefer to rule in the dark. Also, the rising mental health issues in society could be ameliorated by addressing work-related issues. Many people are overworked, stressed, feel like they have no power, angry, fearful of future, cannot support family - neither financially nor being *present* for family (instead of working). _But hey, just find a 2nd or 3rd job they say._ Insane!
Fantastic conversation! I've absolutely loved it, especially the part about reaching out to other people in a low-pressure way. I often find myself getting stuck in my own thoughts, forgetting a realization I had some time ago: most people I meet are essentially lonely. It's difficult to notice this even upon a second glance because their lives seem fulfilled. However, they seem to struggle to find a good listener and communicator. Dr. K's videos have taught me so much about communication, and I'm trying my best to apply these lessons.
I had to rewind to make sure I heard right that he said, 'in the decade prior to the pandemic, there was a 57% increase in suicide rates' that is absolutely insane.
This was so good. Love the examples of how to casually invite someone to hang out and the reframing of judgment-based language into more objective language. Kudos to Dr. K for pulling a big name and still making the content feel approachable!
I love how Dr. K didn't really let this conversation become just another boring statement or government speech. This felt like a genuine Dr. K style conversation with really meaningful and helpful points for the audience.
A great upload, really unexpected actually! I think breaking down barriers with things like government figures, celebrities, or anything of note to help us visualize they are people too is always a great tool on the internet. Thank you for taking the time Dr. K and thank you Vivek!
NotJustBikes has pretty much already figured out why isolation, loneliness, and depression is on the rise in the States. It is pretty difficult to facilitate natural social interaction given how poorly cities are designed here.
THIS, but it's the near entirety of North America. I live in Ottawa and it's such a timesink to socialize with anyone here with no car and a shitty public transportation infrastructure.
@@Preetzole It's like mixing a tiny village with a big city but only take the downsides of both. It's amazing! Seriously how could anyone think that's a good ides?
Was inspired by him when he did my commencement address a month ago, and seeing him here now makes me feel even better! Didn’t know at all about us having a surgeon general before but I can tell he’s doing great work and it’s fantastic to see this outreach!
I think the one thing that I'm grateful for is how this issue is (in real and tangible ways like this) being taken seriously by the most important people in the country. When we hear about mental health and the advisories, it's so hard to see the thought and concern that is required for it to be genuine and authentic to us. Having Mr. Vivek come on and be real about his life by sharing and relating to our struggles helps to really humanize what many, many of us might be struggling through - but don't see and realize because of our social media and modern life bubbles. I really hope that these stories get told more so that we can see how even the most impressive person has moments of doubt. I think it helps people struggling to feel much less alone and even draw strength from. The actions he took to reach out is both simple, yet profound. There needs to more done to show young people who might be lost or struggling that their fears are valid, but at the same time it isn't as terrible as you think. This is why Dr.K is great because deliver the message in a nuanced, relatable and compassionate way.
Internet is a judgmental place, and said judgment tends to be aggressively, and almost unapologetically, externalised for others to take note and become aware of. Many, if not most, of us grew up on the Internet, and we learned from all the interactions that we saw that - no matter what you do or say, there's going to be someone who takes issue with that. The key for me was to just let go of the fear and just allow myself be myself without constraints. Of course, circumstance sometimrd still calls for some sort of front , however recently I noticed I started doing a lot less of that as well. I hope this attitude doesn't get mistaken with indifference or lack of care for others. It's still the same game, but I just stopped pretending to be something I'm not, or something I think others want me to be. It helped me become a lot more honest with myself, and my relationships have become a lot more fulfilling. It's become more fulfilling overall. Great interview ❤️
I found Vivek's approach to his social life really inspiring. I'll make more of a conscious effort to throw away the masks I'm still wearing and the ones I intended to wear.
Thank you so much for sharing this! I’ve been reading Dr. Murthy’s book “Together” so I thought I’d check this out. It’s been really great hearing from him and he’s really as chill and compassionate on an interview as he is on paper. I’ve been feeling pretty lonely in my first year of college so I’ll definitely be taking some of his advice moving forward into my next year.
I think Humans need stories to feel connected to any idea. That's why examples are so powerful in any communication of anything, because they act like stories. If everything is abstract and in the clouds its just more difficult to relate to.
I have a "Favorites" playlist on RU-vid for videos that I would like twice. This one went straight in there! Wonderful conversation between two awesome professionals who, at the end of the day, are one of us 💚
Dr. K. Is going from strenght to strength. I expect absolutely nothing but am getting quality, wholesome and educational and great content reinforcing thinking and acting on good mental health habits
I have heard Dr. Murthy on several interviews and am deeply grateful during and after every listen that someone this competent and compassionate is in a position of power. Thank you for your work!❤
Perhaps I am outing myself here, but I feel like I am consistently the one "checking in" on other people, whether that be friends, family, or co-workers, but no-one really checks in on me UNLESS I ask them first. And that kinda makes me feel like "oh. I guess I don't matter to anyone UNLESS I am being useful to them." It really hurts some days. But there are times when people approach me first and I find myself answering "I'm doing ok" instead of "I am really struggling right now" because a stupid part of me keeps thinking "don't bother them, they have their own shit going on". I know you have covered it before, Dr. K, but we have an epidemic of lonely young men in this country and no one seems to want to talk about it except to demean them IE "stupid incels!" and I think we really need to start having serious conversations about why so many young men and boys are lonely, unhappy, and suicidal.
I think it’s interesting that people experience the same fear and don’t admit it when they feel it. It would help if it was not perceived as weakness to share our fears, doubts etc.
Great video, in glad you led him to a discussion more about the practical solutions than the abstract analysis of how we're struggling more lately. I know we're all struggling already, I just dont know what to do about it. Great conversation and the surgeon general had very insightful and interesting takes.
I love the point he brings up at 6:22 about keeping physical activity device-free. Working out actually became much MORE enjoyable for me when I stopped listening to music or podcasts while doing it - it became a time I could really use to process my own thoughts while keeping my body busy. Nowadays, if I'm particularly frustrated or worried about something, I think "let me go for a bike ride and think this through." It's been hugely beneficial both mentally and physically.
School is the #1 source of trauma and limiting beliefs for our adult lives imo. When you're a kid the school is the world. If you lose reputation or are humiliated there then it's like being exposed to the whole world on live international TV. Imagine now not only that but being in this same environment with the same rep for 3-5 years all of that whilst not fully maturing as a man. Was literally ranting about this on my last video. INSANE
Unfortunately, simultaneously, school can be the least problematic part of a young kid’s life when their home life is traumatic. All kinds of trauma can drastically impact someone’s adult life and the limiting beliefs they hold.
Now combine both a bad school/home life and it’s a miracle if a kid comes out well adjusted. Kids and people in general need at least one environment where they can feel safe and some level of free. It’s a very complex thing as well because it’s not black and white and nothing is perfect so sometimes it’s even difficult to determine what a bad environment is.
@@Hallfreakyzoid Oh yeah, home is a BIG one, I agree, likely the biggest source of direct and indirect trauma. One other overlooked thing about school is that not only can you be directly traumatized BUT you can learn that certain aspects of you are also unnaceptable just by seeing how OTHER KIDS are bullied. I call it 2nd degree trauma but Iºm sure thereºs a proper word for it somewhere
Fully agree with the advice to "be real" all of my best and authentic friendships have come from following that advice. However, I actually am weird, and I have been too real with people before in a way that drives them off, its embarrassing and it sucks, but I keep doing it because all you need is to succeed a couple of times, then you have a friend or partner for life. Lower success rate, but every single one is a critical success, and there are ways to learn and feel out when to be more or less open with someone while still being authentic.
🤜🤛💪💪Powerful collaboration fueled with practicality. The conversation itself was modeling respectful real talk. Timestamp: 10:59 I legit laughed out loud. Super on target and helpful to articulate the dynamic in the experience.
Seeing the Surgeon General open up near the end was so great. Dr.K really knows how to ask really good questions that we’re all thinking. I love how he asked the question of, “well reaching out to people and asking to have lunch….isn’t that WEIRD?”
"Isn't that weird?" was a great twist! It made me think of how icebreakers have been universally dreaded or hated, but it makes sense! Yeah, we decided to do this kinda weird thing together for the sake of feeling more comfortable and connected with each other.
I think so many of us view ourselves from the worst possible point of view for the point of minimizing the chance of being weird; We're so scared of and focus on, not getting the affirmation from our deeds that counterproductively we think more of our own image than sending out a helping hand. I sure as hell ain't no exception but it's interesting to reflect upon🤔
@@accidentalgenius8252 Nothing really. I was just surprised I got so inspired by a surgeon general from US. The loneliness and need for advice seem to be universal though.
I see. Every time one of my old friends reaches out to me out of nowhere I always assume the worse, like either they just want to borrow some money or bring me to MLM. I guess I should try to be more positive
I started reaching out to people I haven't talked to for a long time last week and it feels amazing, the only thing that bothers me is that it's always me who do that I feel like noone cares.
Giving with an open heart frees you. On the flip side-I get it... seems like you're reaching out perhaps because you want to feel/be more cared for, and you should be. May the Universe rise to meet the hope of your heart. ❤
I cant always call my grandma but I make sure I send letters back and forth with her to make sure we stay connected. She's always written letters to others as I grew up and I enjoyed doing it as well. However, this gave me the perspective of it. Its not a problem to send letters at all? Its just the way your perceive. I certainly feel this anxiety with sending messages on messenger. So that points towards it being in our heads, perhaps.
When I found out I had cancer a few months ago, friends began to call me. Each one said they felt strange about calling. But I was so grateful for their calls. Their calls energized me. I learned a powerful lesson. As my daddy used to say, “Man is a social animal”. Turns out he was reading up on social and psychological science. It’s true.
