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Psychiatrist Daniel Hell Critiques Over-Pathologizing of Unpleasant Emotions in NZZ Interview

publication · 2026-04-07

In an interview with NZZ, psychiatrist Daniel Hell argues that unpleasant emotions are too quickly pathologized in contemporary society. He suggests that what is often viewed as weakness actually enables human progress. According to Hell, inner fragility is an inherent part of being human. The conversation explores themes of depression, resilience, and fragility. This discussion appears in the feuilleton/books section of the publication. The interview was published by NZZ, though no specific date is provided in the source material. Hell's perspective challenges current tendencies to medicalize normal emotional experiences. He contrasts historical attitudes toward emotional distress with modern approaches.

Key facts

  • Daniel Hell is a psychiatrist
  • He criticizes the pathologization of unpleasant emotions
  • Inner fragility is part of being human
  • What is seen as weakness enables progress
  • Interview published by NZZ
  • Appears in feuilleton/books section
  • Themes include depression, resilience, fragility
  • Contrasts historical and modern attitudes toward emotions

Entities

Institutions

  • NZZ

Sources