Dr. Derek Summerfield, a South African psychiatrist, spent time in Cambodia studying the mental health effects of leftover landmines on the local population. Coincidentally, during this time, antidepressant medications were introduced to the region. But there was one problem. In the local Khmer language, there was no word for “antidepressant.”
So, Dr. Summerfield explained to the local doctors that depression is “a profound sadness that you can’t shake off.” As the Cambodian team discussed this together, they nodded, recognizing that they knew people who experienced such struggles. They then told Dr. Summerfield the story of a farmer from a nearby village.
One day, the peaceful atmosphere of the rice paddies was suddenly shattered by a loud bang. Tragically, the farmer had stepped on an old landmine left over from the Vietnam War. The explosion was devastating, taking his lower leg. Fortunately the farmer survived the incident, but after being fitted with an artificial limb, he began to experience a very dark period in his life feeling hopeless and helpless.
When Dr. Summerfield suggested that antidepressant medications might help in such situations, the Cambodian doctors and villagers shook their heads. They explained that the farmer’s depression had already been “cured” … but not with pills.
As the farmer’s struggles grew, the villagers and local doctors gathered to discuss how they could help. They did something profoundly simple but often overlooked: they listened.
The farmer shared his fears and his pain. Not only was he grappling with the physical challenges of working with an artificial limb, but he was also terrified of triggering another explosion. Eventually, he realized that returning to the rice fields was no longer an option. It was clear that continuing his previous work was impossible.
Then, someone had a genius idea … A Cow.
Since the farmer could no longer manage the physical and mental demands of rice farming, the villagers suggested to buy him a cow. With this he would be able to change his work and do dairy farming. The entire village contributed to the purchase, and soon, the farmer’s life transformed. He now had a new purpose, a new livelihood, and a renewed sense of hope. His depression lifted.
The Cambodian doctors told Dr. Summerfield: “You see, the cow was his antidepressant!” To them, an antidepressant wasn’t a pill that altered brain chemistry. It was community support, deep listening, and helping someone create a new path in life.
Dr. Summerfield later reflected on this during his work back at a leading London hospital: “When I make a difference, it’s when I address my patients’ social situations, not what’s happening between their ears (referring to antidepressants ability to change brain chemistry).”
This story is recounted in Johann Hari’s groundbreaking book Lost Connections, where Hari explores the root causes of depression and how meaningful connections can lead to recovery … things he learned from his own lifelong struggle with depression.
As we approach the holiday season, this story serves as a beautiful reminder of the power of listening and compassion. Sometimes, the greatest gifts we can give aren’t material. They’re our time, understanding, and support.
By taking a moment to sit with someone and truly hear their struggles, we may help them discover their own “antidepressant cow” … a new way forward, a spark of hope, and perhaps a fresh sense of purpose.
And if you’re looking for further inspiration, I can wholeheartedly recommend the two books below. They are filled with many more fascinating and uplifting stories and would make wonderful Christmas gifts :-).
I wish you that this holiday season brings you the chance to connect deeply with those around you and share moments of care and understanding.
Merry Christmas and a Happy & Healthy New Year ahead!
Cheerio
Joerg
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