Chronically American: Our Evolution Towards Chronic Illness and Our Radical Way Forward

Book excerpt: Before the birth of America, a new way of thinking was starting to gain momentum in the West. This new way of making sense of the world developed on the heels of the Scientific Revolution and marked the beginning of the Modern Era. As the United States matured into a nation, the ideals of modernity influenced nearly all aspects of life, including how we care for ourselves and others within the healthcare system. America grew into a superpower on the global stage but continues to struggle at home with the health of its people. Chronic diseases now affect over one-half of Americans and chronic stress is a factor in 85% of all diseases and illnesses. Chronically American takes a look at the American way of life and makes connections between how people live, and the effects that it has on chronic illness and well-being. It also proposes a way forward with a solution so radical that it has been hiding in plain sight all along and can set a course for personal and collective wholeness, peace, and well-being.