Journal of Psychosocial Wellbeing (JPSW) is a biannual journal dedicated to advancing knowledge and fostering critical dialogue on the intersection of mental health, social factors, and cultural dynamics. Our mission is to provide a high-quality platform that is relevant, inclusive, and thought-provoking, representing the diverse voices and perspectives of mental health professionals, researchers, academicians, and scholars worldwide. JPSW invites original research articles, literature reviews, critical commentaries, case studies, and book reviews that explore the complex interplay of psychosocial factors. By emphasizing the social and cultural dimensions of mental health, JPSW aims to contribute to evidence-based practices, policy development, and a deeper understanding of psychosocial wellbeing. We welcome contributions that challenge conventional paradigms, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and address emerging issues in the mental health field.
Counseling: An Art of Healing and Mental Wellness
Counseling is an interpersonal helping process. This service is poorly defined and presently anyone at all with little or no training can offer these services. It was often misunderstood as a profession in India earlier and needs in the Indian context emerge against the background of tremendous social change. Available counselling services are largely based on Western approaches to psychology. There are various model, approaches, methods, and steps technics of this .These approaches have been widely criticised as not being relevant to the Indian cultural context. India's ancient traditions offer a wealth of psychological insights and concepts that hold significant potential for modern application. Despite its potential, counselling psychology remains an underdeveloped field in India, lacking cultural relevance and validity. There is needed to incorporate the traditional Indian values and philosophies e.g., yoga, mindfulness, Ayurveda etc.
Background: We all, once in our life face stress though how we handle it can make all the difference. Stress creates greater physiological demands. More energy, oxygen, circulation, and therefore more metabolic cofactors are needed e.g. vitamins and minerals. Aims: To explore about the importance of diet and its relation to manage stress. Methods: This paper is based on a narrative review of existing literature, including peerreviewed articles and reports related to stress and nutrition. Conclusion: Stress not only influences the choice of food of a person but also the quantity of the food eaten. Stress can be managed well with the help of a nutritious and well-balanced diet. It is a powerful therapeutic tool to reduce stress as well as benefits that improve brain functioning, shore up immune function, lower blood pressure, improve the circulation, and reduce toxins from the body. There are complex carbohydrates, proteins (tryptophan, phenylalanine and tyrosine, theanine) Vitamin C, Vitamin B, Magnesium, and Selenium. These nutrients play a very specific and important role in stress management.
Spirituality and Addiction Disorder: A Comprehensive Review
Addiction disorder is a complex condition with biological, psychological, social, and several other dimensions. This comprehensive review explores the role of spirituality in both the prevention and treatment of substance use and behavioral addictions. Drawing from a wide range of interdisciplinary research, the paper examines how spiritual practices, beliefs, and communities contribute to resilience, meaning-making, recovery, and longterm abstinence. Theoretical models such as spiritus contra spiritum, genospirituality, and forgiveness-based recovery are discussed alongside empirical findings that demonstrate spirituality as a protective factor— particularly among adolescents and young adults. Evidence shows that spiritual engagement enhances coping mechanisms, identity transformation, community support, and emotional healing. Furthermore, the review addresses the integration of spirituality into clinical settings through evidence-based interventions including spiritually modified cognitive-behavioral therapy, culturally adapted models, and spiritual direction. It also highlights challenges such as cultural diversity, exclusion risks, negative religious coping, and clinician training gaps. Emerging directions suggest the value of trauma-informed spiritual care, mystical experiences, and narrative identity in recovery. The review concludes by advocating for holistic, patient-centered approaches that ethically and effectively incorporate spirituality into mainstream addiction treatment and recovery frameworks.
A Critical Review of Psychological and Spiritual Dimensions of Sufi Music
Sufi music, deeply intertwined with Islamic mysticism, serves as a profound medium for spiritual expression and transcendence. Across cultures, particularly in South Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa, Sufi music has evolved as an experiential tool to facilitate states of spiritual ecstasy (wajd), divine remembrance (dhikr), and the dissolution of the ego (fanā) (Qureshi, 2006; Ernst, 2011). This paper explores the historical origins, philosophical underpinnings, and contemporary relevance of Sufi music as a catalyst for spiritual awakening. It critically examines how musical traditions such as Qawwali, Sama, and Hadra embody Sufi cosmology and discusses debates around orthodoxy, authenticity, and commercialization in the modern era.
Digital Parenting for Adolescent Well-being: Preventive Strategies to Mitigate Technology-Related Risks and Promote Healthy Family Dynamics
The increasing integration of digital technology into everyday life has significantly influenced parenting practices, especially concerning adolescents' screen time and online behaviors. Unregulated digital engagement has been associated with adverse health outcomes, including sleep disturbances, reduced physical activity, and social withdrawal. This paper examines the concept of digital parenting within the framework of preventive healthcare, outlining strategies to mitigate risks associated with excessive technology use while promoting balanced family dynamics. The discussion is supported by global health recommendations, including those from the World Health Organization (WHO), and empirical evidence on the psychological and behavioral implications of digital overuse. The paper explores the phenomenon of "technoference" and its impact on parent-child relationships, highlighting the need for structured family interventions to address digital addiction. Practical recommendations for establishing technology-related boundaries, fostering digital literacy, and promoting parental engagement in children's online experiences are discussed. By adopting evidence-based strategies, parents can safeguard adolescent well-being and ensure healthy interactions with technology.
Effectiveness of information booklet regarding government health schemes among registered antenatal women, Haryana, India
Background -The high number of maternal deaths in the poor and underdeveloped areas of the world shows the inadequate access to health services and brings to focus the ever widening gap between the rich and poor. Improving maternal health is one of the eight Millennium Development Goals adopted by the international community in 2000. Maternal morbidity and mortality can be reduced by giving proper education, awareness, preventative and promotive health care specially by promoting early registration, regular antenatal check-ups and institutional deliveries. Aims: To assess the effectiveness of information booklet on level of knowledge regarding government health schemes for mothers having less than five yea children among registered antenatal women. .Methods and Methodology: The study was conducted using convenient sampling. Total 60 registered antenatal women were taken from urban area ,Rohtak, Haryanaa. They were fulfilling inclusion and exclusion criteria. Semi structured self-made questionnaire regarding government health schemes related to mothers and less than five years children were used. Data was analysed using SPSS software version 20. Results: There were significant difference was found between pre and post assessment secession. Conclusion :The self-developed Semi Structured Questionnaire and information booklet can utilized as tool for enhancing awareness and improving maternal and child health and reducing mortality and morbidity of maternal and child.cts.
Adjustment, Self-Esteem and Life Satisfaction of Children of Working and Non-Working Mothers: A Comparative Study
Background: It has been reported in several studies that working status of a mother significantly impacts the psychosocial well being of a child. However the impact is complex and depends on various factors such as maternal mental health and parent child relationship, type of family etc. Aim: The purpose of this study is a) to study and compare the Adjustment, Self-esteem and Life satisfaction of children of working and non working mothers and to further b) study the gender differences on Adjustment, Self-esteem and Life satisfaction of children of working and non working mothers. Materials and Methods: The present study is based on crosssectional design, conducted on a sample of 100 students of working and non working mothers. Data was collected from schools of Jammu District using assessment tools Adjustment Inventory for school Students, Rosenberg’s self-esteem scale and The Brief Multidimensional Students’ Life Satisfaction Scale (BMSLSS). For assessing the result of the study SPSS 20 version was used. Descriptive statistics such as mean, SD and t test were applied. Results and Conclusion: Significant differences were found between children of working and non working mothers on some dimensions of adjustment and self esteem whereas no significant difference found between children of working and non working mothers on life satisfaction. Similarly Significant gender differences were found on some dimensions of adjustment, life satisfaction and self esteem.
Death And Grieving in Homer’s Iliad as Illustrated by Dr. Emily Wilson
Emily Wilson's translation of the final eight books of Homer's Iliad offers a powerful look at how people cope with death and grief. The epic poem, traditionally attributed to Homer, delves into the enduring impact of loss, especially on its central figure, Achilles. The Iliad vibrantly portrays the fatalities of war and the dreadful effects of grief. It was seen gaudily in Achilles's descent into rage after the death of his friend, Patroclus. Though Achilles's grief deviates from modern theories, it showcases stages of grief like denial, depression and anger. Additionally, the Iliad offers valuable insight of historical suffering. Ancient Greek concepts like 'divine madness' or 'theia mania,' providing a historical lens on people’s understanding of the pain of loss during that era.
Reimagining Mental Health Approach Through Indian Perspectives
India is a largest country (population wise) of the world, where residing 1.464 billion people, but still they have not their own theory, practice, approaches, and model in the area of mental health. Most of the psychiatry practice in India is guided and imported by the western approach, which have largely ignored the role of religion, family, eastern philosophy and medicine in understanding and managing the psychiatric disorders. Even, the research on mental health conducted in India utilizes the European perspectives and hardly have we used Indian perspectives to understand Indian reality. We resist the imposition of the European beliefs, values, thinking and life style in the name of social emancipation, empowerment and justice. Historically there is no evidence to show that the European values, thought or life style has empowered or uplifted any people in the third world. The western concepts in mental health practice would therefore be extremely short-sighted and unproductive. From last couple of decadesfew of the mental health professional have attempted to develop Indian perspective drawing inspiration from our rich cultural and philosophical wisdom, their works have been side-lined by the Eurocentric intellectuals who dominated the discourse with the help of government machinery.
Introduction: Social media has become an integral part of modern life, driven by increasing internet access and widespread use of digital devices. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp support communication, learning, and social engagement. In India, over 462 million people used social media in January2024,indicating its broad societal impact. While it offers educational, professional, and social benefits, excessive use raises concerns such as addiction, distraction, and mental health issues. Research Methodology: This paper is based on a narrative review of existing literature, including peer-reviewed articles, reports, and statisticsfrom2007 to 2024. Sources were selected to explore both the positive and negative impacts of social media, particularly among students and professionals. Discussion: Studies reveal that excessive social media use may lead to reduced academic performance, lower workplace productivity, and increased psychological distress. Social media addiction mimics behavioral dependencies, reinforcing compulsive behaviors through constant feedback and reward mechanisms. Conclusion: While social media offers many advantages, its over use can be harmful. Promoting digital awareness, setting healthy boundaries, and encouraging responsible use are essential. With mindful engagement, the benefits of social media can be harnessed while mitigating its adverse effects.
Unravelling Homelessness and Mental Distress: A Psychosocial Exploration of Chronic Mental Distress and Social Displacement
Introduction: Homelessness among individuals experiencing intricate psychosocial difficulties persists as a significant public health concern. This case study examines the life of a 70-year-old man whose persistent homelessness arises from intergenerational familial discord, interfaith marital dissolution, financial adversity, and deteriorating mental health. Comprehending these interrelated aspects is crucial for formulating effective support and rehabilitation methods for marginalised groups. The present study aims to investigate the intricate psychosocial and structural elements that led to the subject's shift from economic security to chronic homelessness, emphasising the influence of interfaith marriage, familial discord, and systemic neglect. Methodology: This qualitative case study was conducted using an in-depth semi-structured life narrative interview. The narrative underwent theme analysis to discern principal pathways, pivotal moments, and societal pressures. Ethical norms were adhered to, and all identifying information has been anonymised. Results: The case exemplifies how interfaith unions, especially in conservative socio-cultural contexts can lead to persistent marginalisation when familial and communal support deteriorates. It further underscores the lack of mental health services, legal safeguards, and rehabilitative frameworks for those who are neglected owing to personal and systemic deficiencies. Conclusion: The instance highlights the necessity for focused interventions and collaborative policy measures to tackle chronic homelessness within socially marginalised groups.
Spirituality and Mental Health: Indian-Western Perspectives
Spirituality significantly impacts mental health across diverse cultures, influencing emotional resilience, coping mechanisms, and overall psychological well-being. Purpose of this review article is to explore the convergence of spirituality and mental health through both Indian and Western lenses. In Indian traditions, spirituality is intrinsically woven into daily life, with concepts like karma, dharma, yoga, and meditation serving as fundamental pillars of mental equilibrium. Practices such as Yoga, Meditation, Mantra Chanting, Ayurveda, and holistic healing emphasize the mind-body connection, fostering inner harmony and stress reduction. Bhakti, or devotion, alongside seva (selfless service), fosters both self-realization and emotional stability. This principle resonates with the tenets of Sikhism, Buddhism, and Jainism, all of which emphasize practices conducive to inner peace and spiritual understanding. Western perspectives often frame spirituality within psychological constructs, such as meaning-making, existential well-being, mindfulness-based therapies and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) incorporate spiritual dimensions to augment mental health outcomes. Empirical studies demonstrate that spirituality cultivates hope, alleviates anxiety, and strengthens resilience in individuals confronting stress, trauma, and psychiatric conditions. By analyzing the integration of spirituality in therapeutic practices across these traditions, this research underscores the necessity for culturally informed interventions. Bridging Eastern and Western perspectives offers the potential for a more holistic approach to mental health, ensuring personalized and effective healing strategies for a global population.
Eco-Social Work : The teachings from Srimad Bhagavad Gita
This paper explores the intersection of the teachings of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita and eco-social work, focusing on the environmental ethics embedded in its philosophical principles. The Gita, a key spiritual text, providesinsights on interconnectedness, selfless action (Nishkama Karma), duty, compassion, and detachment from materialism, all of which align with the core values of green social work. The study examines how the Gita’ steachings promote sustainable practices, social justice, and the moral responsibility to care for the environment. Key concepts like Vasudeva Kutumbakam (the world is one family) and Nishkama Karma (selflessaction) offer a holistic approach to addressing both environmental and social issues. The research also demonstrate show the Gita’s wisdom can guide eco-social workers, encouraging them to integrate ethical action, environmental advocacy, and compassion into their practice. Emphasizing the need to align social work with environmental sustainability, the study proposes a framework for eco-social work that prioritizes the well-being of both people and the planet, fostering a balanced, harmonious relationship between humanity and nature.
Ayurveda, Panchakosha model and Manomaya Kosh: Its Relevance in Modern Mental Health Care
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in holistic approaches having the health and well-being. Ancient Indian traditional approaches provide an intricate framework for understanding human consciousness and health .This address the interconnections between the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of human existence. Manomaya Kosha refers to the mental and emotional layer of human being. This shea then compasses person thoughts, feelings, and mental processes. That has playing a crucial role in overall mental health and emotional well-being of the person. It is a field of energy by itself. Taittiriya Upanishad says: “Within the vital force is yet another body, this one made of thought energy. It fills the two denser bodies and has the same shape. Those who understand and control the mental body are no longer afflicted by fear.” Learning to develop Manomaya Kosha or mental body is important for person’s mental health. This is right time through bridging this ancient indigenous approach into the modern systems. It can foster a more inclusive, compassionate, and effective mental health paradigm for the current as well as future.
Impact of Nature-Based Tourism on Psychological Well-Being: A Comprehensive Review
Nature-based tourism, encompassing activities such as forest bathing, mountain hiking, and wildlife safaris, has gained prominence due to its perceived psychological benefits. This review explores the impact of various types of nature-based tourism on psychological well-being, focusing on stress reduction, overall mental health improvement, and enhanced psychological well-being. The review includes detailed case studies on wild life safaris and forest bathing. The review synthesizes findings from recent literature, highlighting key theories such as Attention Restoration Theory (ART), Stress Reduction Theory (SRT), and the Biophilia Hypothesis, which explain the mechanisms through which nature-based experiences influence mental health. Additionally, the review covers various types of nature-based tourism, including beach tourism, birdwatching, and kayaking, and their associated psychological benefits. By integrating theoretical perspectives and empirical evidence, this review underscores the importance of nature-based tourism in promoting mental health. The findings suggest that nature-based experiences offer substantial benefits for stress reduction, mood enhancement, and life satisfaction. Practical implications for stakeholders include the promotion of nature-based tourism as astrategy for mental health improvement and the need for continued research to explore and expand upon these benefits.
Perceived social support and relationship between domain of Family functioning of people with Schizophrenia
Background: The family’s environment and other activities also impact the mental health of the person. Thefamily’s negative attitude such as inadequate problem solving, communication, role, general functioningandinadequate social support ultimately impact the person diagnosed with schizophrenia. Aims: The purposeofthisstudy is (i) to explore the impact of Social support among the person diagnosed with schizophrenia acrossthegender (ii) to explore the Association between Family functioning and social support among families of personwith Schizophrenia. Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional hospital based observational studyhasbeenconducted at Centre of Excellence in Mental Health, Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Medical Sciences&DrRam Manohar Lohia Hospital, New Delhi. Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale (MDPSSS)andMcMaster family assessment device has been applied. For assessing the result of the study SPSS20versionwasused. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, correlation wereapplied.Results and conclusion: MDPSSS shows a not significant difference of mean and Standard deviationbetweenthe genders. Positive correlation was found between multidimensional Perceived Social Support andfamilyassessment device like, communication and family, role and problem solving, role and communication, generalfunctioning with affective responsiveness and behavior control.
Securing Access to Rights of Persons with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in India
Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) do have the equal right to enjoy human rights to life, equality, security, and dignity like their counterparts without disabilities. Yet, owing to various attitudinal, structural, and systemic barriers, indifferent treatment by the society, and dearth of adequate data, PwDs continue to live as an invisible category in India (Bansal, nd). The census of India gives the statistics that around 1.5 million population lives Individuals with some form of intellectual disabilities Developmental Disabilities (IDDs) of whom 1.2 million are under major non-economic activities in our country . For centuries persons with disabilities have been facing discrimination and are denied to exercise their fundamental rights. Often, they are treated as the neglected part of the society resulting in denial of their rights related to education, employment, and political life (Janardhana et al., 2015).
Journey of Social Work to Professional Social Work: Indian Perspectives
History of Social Work in India is an age old phenomenon. Social work in India has a rich and enduring history, deeply intertwined with the countries cultural, social, and political fabric. Through this article, Author embarks on a journey over time to explore the historical milestones that have shaped the social work profession in India. It has believed that as a professional concept of social work got recognition only in the 19th century and social work practice in India was introduced by the Americans in 1930s, and started adopting the American model of social work education. Social Work as a profession in India was recognized and developed by western countries (mainly UK and USA) yet the bases on which the profession rests upon very well exist in the foundation of Indian history as well as Indian civilization. Ancient India had a rich tradition of philanthropy and altruism deeply rooted in its religious and cultural practices. The concept of “daana” (charity) played a significant role and deeply ingrained in the ethos of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, where individuals were encouraged to give to the needy as a moral duty.
Exploring Relationship between Positive Death Attitude and Flourishing among very old persons
The psychological well-being of elderly persons is often marked by the focus on physical discomforts, illnesses and its treatment however it is associated in context to how they face approaching death in near future. Positive death attitudes, such as neutral acceptance, approach acceptance, and escape acceptance, are keys to understanding how elderly cope with it. This study explores the relationship between these death attitudes and flourishing which is a measure of overall well-being in elderly group. In the present study a diverse group of 300 old and very old persons aged 76 years and above who were assessed using standardized scales for flourishing and death attitudes. The study examined how these attitudes correlate with their psychological well-being. Descriptive statistics and Correlation was used to determine the nature and relationship between these two variables. This study highlights the need for further exploration and the development of programs that help these persons to navigate their attitudes toward death leading to better-coping mechanisms and emotional resilience.
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Exploring selfie-posting behaviour of contemporary youth
The increasing centrality of online visual self-presentation might increase youths’ appearance-related concerns, problematic monitoring, and photo manipulation. The aim of the present study was to understand the selfie- posting behavior of contemporary youth. To accomplish this a survey questionnaire of selfie posting was developed after doing review of literature, studying previous surveys and expert suggestions. An informed consent was developed by the present researchers. Participants included120 college-going youths of various age groups between18-28. The snowball sampling method as well as purposive sampling method was used. After collection of data descriptive statistics was used to analyze it. The findings highlight varying degrees of selfie engagement and preferences for seeking assistance in capturing selfies. It also highlights the varied approaches individuals have towards both taking and sharing selfies on social media platforms. The findings suggest that individuals share selfies online primarily to document life moments and connect with others, while their appearance range from confidence and satisfaction to experimentation with new styles or occasional dissatisfaction. Participants’ decisions on posting selfies are influenced by various factors such as appearance, mood, and events. They aim to convey emotions like happiness and confidence, with self- esteem influenced by personal achievements, social acceptance, and external validation, among other factors. It also provides insights into individuals’ attitudes, behaviors and motivations related to taking, editing, and sharing selfies on social media platforms. This study also illustrates varying attitudes towards beauty standards, self- perception, and the portrayal of natural appearance on social media platforms.
Adverse childhood experiences, Automatic negative thoughts and Psychological well-being among emerging adults
Background: Adverse childhood experiences encompass stressful or traumatic events in early life, which may include emotional, physical, and/or sexual abuse, as well as emotional and/or physical neglect, and can stem from household dysfunction. Automatic thoughts are mental processes or visualizations that arise in response to triggers from actions or events. An automatic thought is an immediate and spontaneous thought that emerges as the initial response to a given situation. Psychological well-being pertains to an individual’s overall emotional wellness, covering elements such as satisfaction with life, sense of purpose, and positive interpersonal connections. It indicates how individuals perceive the trajectory of their lives and their capacity to navigate life’s obstacles. Aims: The current study explored the relation of adverse childhood experiences, automatic negative thoughts and psychological well-being among emerging adults .The study also evaluated whether adverse childhood experiences, automatic negative thoughts and psychological wellbeing changes with gender. Methods: The sample comprised of 163 young adults between the age of 18 and 25. A convenience sampling method was adopted. Data was procured by using the tools, adverse childhood experiences questionnaire, automatic thoughts questionnaire and psychological wellbeing scale and a demographic form. Statistical analysis was done using Spearman’s rank order correlation analysis and Mann-Whitney U test. Results and conclusion: Significant correlation between the variables, ACE, ANT and PWB. It also evidenced that adverse childhood experience shows a significant difference with respect to gender
Effect of alcohol dependence on neuropsychological functioning
Background: Alcohol use disorders (AUD) associate with structural and functional brain differences, including impairments in neuropsychological function. Alcohol is the most widely used psychoactive substance worldwide. More than 50% of alcohol dependent subjects can have alterations in cognitive functions. Cognitive dysfunction interferes with treatment and increases the risk of relapse in alcohol dependence; hence, its identification has potential therapeutic implications. Alcohol-dependence is related to large-scale cognitive impairments, particularly for executive functions (EF). These deficits persist even after long-term abstinence and have a major impact on patients’ everyday life and relapse risk. Aim: This study aims to investigate the affect of alcohol dependence on neuropsychological functioning. Methods: For this, literature has been looked for manually as well as through electronic resources like PubMed and Google Scholar. Conclusion: There is a significantly greater cognitive impairment in those with alcohol dependence compared to those without. Evaluating alcohol dependent patients for cognitive impairment can have important therapeutic and prognostic implications.
Rehabilitation in Mental Health Disabilities: Assessing the Present and Tackling Future Challenges
Rehabilitation for mental health disabilities is a vital and continually developing field that seeks to address both psychological and functional impairments caused by a range of mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, autismspectrum disorder, and intellectual disabilities. These conditions often result in significant cognitive, emotional, andsocial challenges, requiring a multidisciplinary approach to rehabilitation. Current rehabilitation strategies involve psychosocial interventions, cognitive-behavioral therapies, and vocational training aimed at enhancing autonomy and improving the qualityof life. However, several persistent challenges remain, including social stigmatization, limited accessibility, insufficient resources, and fragmented care models. Moreover, the lack of personalized, evidence-based interventions further hampersthe effectiveness of rehabilitation services. This narrative review explores the present state of mental health disability rehabilitation, highlighting the challenges facedandthe ongoing efforts to innovate through emerging technologies, policy reforms, and integrated care models. Special emphasisis placed on the role of telehealth, AI-driven tools, and interdisciplinary approaches in delivering patient-centered care. Thereview also stresses the need for reducing societal stigma, enhancing accessibility, and promoting more comprehensivecarecoordination. By fostering collaboration across various sectors and disciplines, the future of mental disability rehabilitationholds the potential to provide more inclusive and effective services tailored to the diverse needs of individuals.
Ashtanga Yoga and Positive Mental Health
Ashtanga Yoga, rooted in the classical teachings of Patanjali, has gained increasing recognition for its therapeutic benefits in mental health. This paper explores its role in promoting psychological well-being, with a specific focus on its psychosocial impact. A systematic review of approximately 50 studies—selected from an initial pool of 167—was conducted, considering factors such as accessibility, methodological rigor, and relevance to contemporary mental health challenges. Some studies were excluded due to paywall restrictions, limited author permissions, or insufficient sample sizes. The findings highlight Ashtanga Yoga’s efficacy in alleviating anxiety, depression, stress, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Additionally, key psychosocial benefits, including improved emotional regulation, enhanced social functioning, and increased self-esteem, are examined in both clinical and non-clinical populations. The evidence suggests that Ashtanga Yoga serves as an effective complementary intervention for fostering emotional resilience and strengthening interpersonal relationships. This paper underscores the need for further large-scale, controlled trials to deepen our understanding of its long-term psychological benefits.
Knowledge of Reproductive Rights among Women with Severe Mental illness
Studies have been conducted on reproductive rights and sexual and mental health topics across different countries. However, there are few studies on knowledge of reproductive rights among women with severe mental illness in India. This article presents reproductive rights among women with mental illness based on available literature. The review article highlights the importance of exploring other aspects, such as reproductive rights, physical health and wellbeing, and intersecting with marriage, family planning, use of contraceptive sexuality, and pregnancy. It also stresses the need for further research on severe mental illness concerning marriage, family planning, pregnancy, and Sexual and Reproductive Health in the Indian Context.
Psychological Distress and Expressed Emotion Among Persons with Alcohol Dependence Syndrome and Normal Control
Background: Alcohol Dependence Syndrome (ADS) is a pervasive public health issue that affects millions worldwide, contributing to significant physical, psychological, and social challenges. It is crucial to observe expressed emotion and psychological distress for better treatment outcomes in ADS. Aim: The aim of this study is to psychological distress and expressed emotion among persons with alcohol dependence syndrome. Materials and Methods: The present cross‑sectional comparative study conducted among persons with ADS on treatment from the inpatient department of the Central India Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (CIIMHANS), Dewada, Chhattisgarh, India, and normal controls from neighbouring areas (Dewada and Kopedih) of the CIIMHANS. A total of 80 persons with ADS and 80 normal controls were selected purposefully. The sociodemographic datasheet, family emotional involvement and criticism scale, and depression anxiety stress scales were used for the comparative assessment. Results and Conclusion: The present study found that significant difference in family expressed emotion (EE) and psychological distress among individuals with ADS and normal control. It highlights that higher levels of emotional involvement and criticism from family members are strongly associated with increased symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress in individuals with ADS.
Work-Family Conflict of Working Women in the Business Process Outsourcing Sector
Introduction: Working women would have encountered inter-role conflict as they had to balance office and household work though there wasn’t much data available in this regard. Aim: The present study was to understand the work-family conflict among working women in the (BPO) sector. Methodology: The present study used the purposive sampling method; 80 women from all over the country were asked to fill out an online google form that recorded how they maintain office and household work working in the BOP sector, perceived stress scale, the patient health questionnaire, the subjective wellbeing index, and Work-Family conflict scale were administered on the subjects. Result: The majority of women reported significant anxiety, depression, and well-being issue. Those in mid-level managerial positions had significantly higher stress than others (p<0.01). The stress levels positively correlated with anxiety and depression (p<0.01). The subjective well-being negatively correlated with anxiety and depression (p <0.01). Those with high stress also reported fewer social interactions and work-family conflict. Conclusion: Comprehensive plans are necessary to support women’s mental health and well-being and delineate work-family conflict mechanisms in the BPO sector.
Integrating the Sacred and the Sentient: A Mixed-Methods Exploration of Spirituality and Emotional Intelligence Among the Elderly
Background: As the aging population faces numerous emotional and psychological challenges, understanding the potential benefits of spirituality and EI becomes crucial. Aims: This study investigates the intricate relationship between spirituality and emotional intelligence (EI) among elderly individuals, and its impact on their psychological well-being. Methods: The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with 100 participants aged 65 and above who regularly engage in spiritual practices. Results: The study’s findings support the hypotheses that elders who engage in regular spiritual practices exhibit higher emotional intelligence, and that EI mediates the relationship between spirituality and psychological well-being. Mindfulness, prayer, and religious community participation were identified as key spiritual practices associated with higher EI. Qualitative insights revealed that spirituality provides a sense of purpose, enhances self-awareness, and fosters emotional resilience and empathy. Results indicate a strong positive correlation between spirituality and emotional intelligence, with EI serving as a significant mediator in the relationship between spirituality and psychological well-being. The study concludes that integrating spiritual practices into emotional intelligence training could substantially improve psychological outcomes for older adults. These findings have important implications for religious institutions, families, communities, and researchers in supporting and further studying this relationship. Conclusion : This research provides valuable insights into the powerful interplay between spirituality and emotional intelligence in promoting psychological well-being among the elderly, suggesting that incorporating spiritual practices into elder care could significantly enhance their mental and emotional health.
Journey of Professional Social Work in UK and USA
Social work is a profession for those with a strong desire to help improve people’s lives. They assist people by helping them cope with issues in their everyday lives, deal with their relationships, and solve personal and family problems. This is a profession in which trained professionals are devoted to helping vulnerable people and communities work through challenges they face in everyday life. Social workers practice in a wide variety of settings, united in their commitment to advocating for and improving the lives of individuals, families, groups and societies. Social workers are found in every facet of community life, including schools, hospitals, mental health clinics, senior citizens, elected office, private practices, prisons, military, corporations, and in numerous public and private agencies
Effectiveness of Holistic Approach on Anxiety and Depression: A case study
Background: A 50-year-old female, a widow with up to a 5th-grade education, belonged to a lower-middle socioeconomicstatus in a semi-urban area, came to the Mindful Mind Centre, with chief complaints such as disturbed sleep, alteredappetite, uneasiness, apprehension, uncertainty, fearfulness, forgetfulness, low energy, low mood, poor attention and concentration, difficulty in work, and low self-confidence. Aim: This study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of a holistic approach on anxiety and depression. Methodology: clinical interview, BDI, and BAI were applied. Moderate levels of anxiety and depression were found. Process and Results: Twice a week, there were total number of 16 sessions were conducted, each lasting 50-60 minutes. The holistic approach in the therapy module included supportive psychotherapy, psycho-education, cognitive behavior therapy, and mindful formal exercise, reassessment and follow-up sessions were conducted. The significant improvement found. She was able to manage her life better than before and experienced increased happiness. Her worries and insecurities decreased. Conclusion: The holistic approach effectively reduced the levels of anxiety and depression while improving cognitive abilityand calmness