Exploring the silent epidemic of attitude sickness—an urban psychological condition born from societal isolation, superiority complexes, and modern pressures—while uncovering ways to combat its impact on mental well-being. Ranjan Das Gupta writes…

Attitude sickness, a rising psychological issue among the urban elite, stems from isolation, superiority complexes, and modern societal pressures. This silent epidemic affects corporate leaders, media figures, and even healthcare professionals, leading to loneliness, irrational behaviour, and strained relationships. Unlike the proletariat, often united by daily struggles, the affluent are more vulnerable to this condition. Understanding and addressing attitude sickness through mindfulness, community connection, and socio-political awareness can prevent its damaging effects, including mental health disorders and societal discord. Discover how to recognize and combat this hidden menace threatening modern urban life.

Understanding the Roots of Attitude Sickness

I have witnessed many psychological disorders in my life and family. However, "attitude sickness" is a menace I had never encountered before. It is a modern form of mental illness that is becoming a growing problem, especially among the urban upper class. Attitude sickness can be defined as a psychological condition that is not immediately visible but undoubtedly exists in human minds. As it spreads internationally, it is proving to be a silent killer.

Many times, I have been astonished by the peculiar behaviour of some friends who were once very close to me. Without any apparent reason, they stopped communicating, refused to answer phone calls, and even failed to acknowledge me if we crossed paths. Initially, such behaviour from dear ones deeply hurt me. Then, Dr. Nilanjana Sanyal, former Head of the Psychology Department at Calcutta University, introduced me to the concept of attitude sickness. She pointed out that the lack of meaningful social interaction and an elevated sense of self—viewing the world from a bird’s-eye perspective—gives rise to this condition.

The urban elite are essentially lonely. For them, earning substantial amounts of money, achieving high social status, and gaining power are often perceived as the ultimate keys to success and mental satisfaction. What they fail to realize is that looking down on the less privileged and underestimating their worth yields no real benefits. Instead, it brings loneliness, breeds hatred, and creates a perception that anyone of lower rank or status is a hindrance to personal progress.

Attitude sickness is particularly evident among high-level corporate executives, media professionals, cultural figures, and even medical practitioners. It is perhaps understandable that individuals in the entertainment industry or politics might be more prone to this affliction, given their fame and constant scrutiny. Top business leaders often have limited interaction with the general public. However, when healthcare professionals fall victim to attitude sickness, it becomes a dangerous issue for society at large. Recently, I have witnessed renowned doctors behaving rudely with patients and even treating them inhumanely.

Such individuals often believe they are demigods, and their words are akin to medical gospels. A person afflicted with attitude sickness is highly resistant to constructive criticism. The primary symptoms include abrasive behaviour, irritation over trivial matters, overconfidence rooted in deep-seated insecurities, and a tendency to find fault in everything. These individuals lose their ability to think rationally, steering their minds toward mental self-destruction.

Combating a Silent Killer in Urban Life

The lower strata of society are generally not affected by attitude sickness. The simple reason is that they are united in their struggles—focused on earning their daily bread and dealing with multiple challenges. They lack the mindset of looking down on others, as they are often subjected to such treatment by the affluent layers of society. While they have their flaws, the proletariat retains a sense of empathy, which is increasingly absent in the so-called upper class that despises being labelled a moribund bourgeois.

Eminent parapsychologist Bimal Chatterjee once explained to me that the many layers of the human mind evolve with age, time, and circumstances. Attitude sickness often stems from a superiority complex born out of a deeply ingrained inferiority complex. In this context, I have noticed several friends detaching themselves from me without valid reasons. Frankly, they have no answers when I ask why they avoid me.

It is true that narcissism is an integral element of attitude sickness. Yet, I have also seen individuals like Sangita Reddy, Dr. Vandana Talwar, and Sharmila Ray, who, despite their achievements in healthcare, education, and literature, remain grounded. They defy attitude sickness with an admirable indifference and maintain healthy relationships across social classes. Swami Vivekananda stands as an ideal example of someone who transcended class barriers while inspiring maximum inclusivity.

Attitude sickness is a silent killer in today’s complex urban life, and many are unaware of its existence. Often, the struggles one faces to achieve success are forgotten once the goal is attained. It is during this phase that individuals become vulnerable to attitude sickness. The morose and violent tendencies observed in many mental patients often arise from deep personal scars, including those linked to attitude sickness.

Atheists, in general, are less susceptible to attitude sickness, as many of them maintain a balanced mindset. However, when an atheist starts believing they are larger than life, it becomes dangerous. An atheist afflicted with attitude sickness is prone to severe mental health issues. Unfortunately, in our country, psychologists have yet to address this condition with the seriousness it deserves.

Based on my experiences, the best ways to combat attitude sickness include practicing meditation, staying connected with people from all walks of life, and engaging in a thorough study of socio-political and economic issues. If left unchecked, attitude sickness can lead to mental disorders, suicidal tendencies, and even criminal behaviour. It is crucial to remember that the relentless pursuit of success at any cost is a perilous mindset.