American Journal of Psychiatric Rehabilitation
Welcome to the American Journal of Psychiatric Rehabilitation ISSN: 1548-7776 Open Access | Peer-Reviewed | Continuous Publication Published By : IJRDO Publication Services The American Journal of Psychiatric Rehabilitation is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal committed to publishing high-quality research and scholarship focused on psychiatric rehabilitation, mental health recovery, and related service systems. The journal provides a platform for the dissemination of knowledge that supports individuals with mental health conditions in achieving meaningful life outcomes through evidence-based interventions, service innovations, and recovery-oriented practices. The journal invites original empirical studies, reviews, and theoretical or policy-focused contributions that reflect interdisciplinary perspectives from fields such as psychiatry, psychology, social work, public health, occupational therapy, and education. Priority is given to work that advances understanding of rehabilitation practices, community integration, and systemic responses to mental health challenges. Published articles follow a continuous publication model and are made freely available under an open access license, ensuring wide dissemination and accessibility to researchers, practitioners, and policy stakeholders. Scope of the Journal - Psychiatric rehabilitation and recovery models - Psychosocial and cognitive-behavioral interventions - Community-based mental health services - Education, employment, and housing support in mental health care - Integrated care models and systems-level approaches - Mental health policy, training, and service evaluation This journal aims to support academic inquiry and practical innovation in psychiatric rehabilitation by fostering a space for knowledge exchange across clinical, academic, and community-based settings.
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Efficacy Of Maha Agad In The Management Of Dushi Visha Janya Artava Kshaya (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome): A Clinical And Pharmacological Investigation
The maintenance of a rhythmic and healthy menstrual cycle serves as a foundational pillar for the physiological, psychological, and reproductive well-being of women, acting as a critical determinant for the health of future generations. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) has emerged as a pervasive, multi-factorial endocrine disorder affecting women globally, characterized by a complex interplay of hormonal imbalances and metabolic dysfunctions. Historically identified through the Stein-Leventhal triad comprising oligomenorrhea, hirsutism, and obesity contemporary diagnostic frameworks such as the Rotterdam criteria (2003) now define the syndrome through the presence of at least two of three markers: oligo-ovulation or anovulation, clinical or biochemical hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovarian morphology observed via ultrasonography. From an Ayurvedic perspective, while PCOS is not described as a singular disease entity in classical texts, its clinical manifestations align closely with the pathological state of Artava Kshaya. This condition involves a deficiency in both the quality and quantity of Artava (menstrual blood and ovum), often resulting from the chronic accumulation of latent toxins, termed Dushi Visha. The current clinical investigation evaluates the efficacy of Maha Agad, a classical polyherbal formulation, in rectifying the underlying toxic pathology and restoring reproductive equilibrium in patients suffering from Dushi Visha Janya Artava Kshaya.
Copyright (c) 2026 American Journal of Psychiatric Rehabilitation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Design And Simulation Based Improvement Of A Portable Curb Climbing Aid For Wheelchair
The proposed aid is designed to be arranged and operated by the wheelchair occupant without external assistance. Although several existing designs attempt to address curb climbing challenges, most rely on complex mechanisms, powered systems, or sophisticated controls, making them expensive, heavy, and impractical for household or everyday use. At present, there are no widely available solutions within an economical range that effectively meet the needs of a broad user population. The objective of this work is to develop a simple, low-cost, and user-friendly design that is feasible for users across different economic backgrounds. The proposed system consists of detachable attachments that can be manually deployed by the occupant with minimal physical effort. The design emphasizes affordability, ease of operation, and compatibility with conventional wheelchairs. The study involves analyzing the forces acting on the ramp during wheelchair traversal and using these results to design an appropriate and structurally safe ramp. In addition, mechanical stops are incorporated to arrest the attachments at predefined positions, eliminating the need for complete removal during operation. A slight eccentricity is introduced in the attachment at the axle to improve reachability and ease of handling for the occupant. Overall, the proposed design aims to provide a practical, economical, and effective solution for independent curb climbing by wheelchair users. This paper focuses on the design of a wheelchair equipped with an assistive aid that enables users to climb roadside curbs independently.
Psychological Correlates of Dance and Sports Participation: A Comparative Study of Aggression, Identity, and Coping Mechanisms
The most important factor that influences emotional development together with cognitive growth and behavioural changes in an individual depends on their involvement in structured physical activities. The research aimed to highlight the psychological differences between young adults engaged in dance, sports, and not involved in either, particularly in the areas of aggression orientation, identity formation, and coping methods. The study included 81 (dancers=26, athletes=26 and neither dancer nor sportsperson=29) participants from 18 to 40 years (mean=21.23; sd=3.08). The study used standardized instruments which included the Buss and Perry Aggression Questionnaire (Buss & Perry, 1992), Identity Orientation Scale (Cheek et al., 1994) and the Brief COPE (Carver, 1997) to assess multiple aggression types and identity development patterns and different coping methods. The Shapiro-Wilk test results showed that the data distribution had partial normality which led researchers to use non-parametric statistical methods. The Kruskal-Wallis test showed that different groups exhibited distinct patterns of measurement for the studied variables while the Mann-Whitney U test showed different patterns of measurement between the two groups. The study examined how the three participant groups displayed different approaches to handling stress, aggression and their identity development. The results showed that dancers possessed stronger personal and cultural identities, athletes demonstrated better problem-oriented coping and higher physical aggression. Individuals participating in neither used emotion-based coping methods more frequently while they displayed higher levels of verbal aggression. The study found that dancers and sportspersons showed different scores in personal identity (p=0.04). The research results demonstrate that participation in creative and athletic activities leads to better psychological development through improved identity formation and coping abilities while reducing aggressive behaviour. The findings support the increasing need to promote arts and sports as ways for young adults to achieve emotional well-being.
Impact of Yoga on Anxiety, Depression and Cognitive abilities among youth
AIM: Yoga is a holistic practice which fosters mental, physical and spiritual wellness. In today’s world where stress is a major contributor of mental health problems in young adults, there is a grave need to eliminate mental restlessness and maintain cognitive health in students. We have found that students benefit greatly from practicing yoga that improve their cognitive health and overcome their depression and anxiety. It is the fruit of penance of our sages that we have inherited these wonderful practices. So, they can easily overcome the struggles in life. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of Yogic interventions for cognitive ability. METHODS: A total of 54 students [26 females & 28 male] aged between 19 and 26 participated in the study. They underwent daily yoga session over a period of 30 days. To evaluate changes in cognitive abilities and emotional functioning, assessments were conducted both before and after the intervention using the short Bhatia Battery Performance Tests of Intelligence, Beck Depression Inventory and Sinha’s comprehensive Anxiety test were used. RESULTS: The results showed Yogic interventions have positive effects on mental health, improving cognitive performance, anxiety and Depression. CONCLUSION: Stress is inevitable in human life. But overcoming it and living a beautiful life is also in the hands of man. It is possible to reduce stress that students face through yoga. The sages have worked to awaken the power of the soul. But that power manifests itself in human life, through the mind. The work of radically changing the mind is done through yoga. Yoga changes the mind of the students and takes a constructive turn. The mind can be refreshed again and its lost strength can be regained by very scientific yoga .
Ayurvedic and Modern Review on Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): An Integrative Perspective
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the most common urological disorders affecting aging men. It is characterized by non-malignant enlargement of the prostate gland, resulting in lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) such as urinary frequency, urgency, nocturia, weak urinary stream, hesitancy, and incomplete bladder emptying. The prevalence of BPH increases with advancing age and significantly affects quality of life. Modern medicine explains BPH as a consequence of hormonal changes, particularly the action of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and manages it through lifestyle modifications, pharmacotherapy, and surgical intervention. Ayurveda correlates BPH with Mutraghata, especially Vatashthila, where aggravated Apana Vata associated with Kapha causes urinary obstruction. Ayurvedic management includes Nidana Parivarjana, Shamana Chikitsa, Shodhana Chikitsa, Basti, Uttarbasti, Kshara preparations, herbal medicines, and dietary modifications. This review presents the modern understanding of BPH alongside Ayurvedic concepts and highlights the potential role of integrative management
Agricultural Learning As A Developmental Mechanism: Environmental Structuring, Self-Regulation, And Engagement In Older Adolescents
Agricultural learning opportunities are being increasingly leveraged to impact youth development. However, little attention has been paid to unpacking agricultural learning as a developmental mechanism that can promote self-regulation and engagement. This study aims to understand how older adolescents experience agricultural learning contexts as situations in which young people learn to pay attention, think critically, regulate emotions, and engage with others. This qualitative phenomenological study examines the lived experiences of older adolescents involved in agriculture or garden-based learning and how this context cultivates agency and engagement through experiential features such as structure, work/play tasks, peer-group interactions, and adult scaffolding. Literature from four areas will be reviewed: agricultural education research, positive youth development theory, self-regulated learning literature, and adolescent research on engagement. Self-regulation theory is largely absent from agricultural education research, as most programmes are developed and evaluated with external outcomes like civic knowledge, psychosocial outcomes, or skill-based behaviors in mind. This paper begins to address this gap by proposing that agricultural learning may serve as a systematic, yet situation-specific pathway by which older adolescents learn to become agentic, competent, reflective, and engaged youth.
AYURVEDA AND MENTAL HEALTH: A HOLISTIC APPROACH IN INTEGRATING TRADITIONAL AND MODERN THERAPIES
Ayurveda, a traditional Indian healing system, offers a holistic approach to mental health by addressing mind, body, and spirit imbalances, unlike conventional psychiatry’s symptom-focused treatments. This narrative review evaluates the efficacy and integrative potential of Ayurvedic interventions for disorders like anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, and insomnia. A literature searches up to April 2025 across PubMed, Google Scholar, DOAJ, DHARA, and AYUSH Research Portal, using terms like "mental health" and "Ayurveda," or "Panchakarma" yielded initial 394 articles. After deduplication, removal of review articles, and screening of titles/abstracts, irrelevant records, 54 freely available full text articles were selected, of which 22 peer-reviewed studies (clinical trials, case reports) on interventions like Detoxification therapy (Panchakarma), Cognitive Rejuvenator (Medhya Rasayanas), and Psychocognitive behavioral therapy (Satvavajaya Chikitsa) were included for review, supplemented by Charak Samhita and reference lists. Data on study, interventions, and outcomes were extracted. Narrative synthesis revealed significant symptom relief in schizophrenia (Brahmyadi Yoga, Smriti Sagara Rasa), depression (Shirodhara, Virechana), and anxiety (Ashwagandha, Yoga), with case reports showing enhanced quality of life and reduced medication dependency when integrated with conventional therapies. Combining Ayurveda’s holistic focus with modern psychiatry amplifies patient-centered outcomes, yet regulatory inconsistencies and limited large-scale trials hinder broader adoption. Ayurveda presents a complementary strategy, particularly in resource-scarce settings, but requires robust trials and standardized protocols to bridge evidential gaps and enhance global mental health integration.
“Prevalence of Depression and Associated Factors Among Elderly Population: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study”
Background: Depression is one of the most common psychiatric disorders among the elderly and is associated with substantial impairment in quality of life, functional ability, and overall health outcomes. Aging is frequently accompanied by chronic medical illnesses, sensory impairments, and psychosocial stressors, all of which may contribute to the development of depression. Early identification of depression and its associated factors is essential for improving geriatric mental health care. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of depression among elderly individuals and to assess its association with sociodemographic characteristics, medical comorbidities, sensory impairments, psychiatric morbidities, and perceived stress Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 275 elderly individuals aged 60 years and above. Sociodemographic details, medical comorbidities, sensory impairments, psychiatric morbidities, and perceived stress were assessed using a structured proforma and standardized assessment tools. Statistical analysis was performed using Pearson’s chi-square test and Mann–Whitney U test. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The prevalence of depression among the study participants was 23.6% (65/275). Depression was the most common psychiatric morbidity identified. Visual impairment was present in 53.8% of participants, while hearing impairment was present in 45.5%. Depression showed significant associations with lower educational status (p=0.047), visual impairment (p=0.027), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (p=0.012), ischemic heart disease (IHD) (p=0.002), and higher perceived stress scores (mean PSS score 15.05±10.41 vs. 10.37±8.54; p=0.0001). No significant associations were observed with place of residence, religion, marital status, occupation, family history, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, combined hypertension and diabetes, or hearing impairment. Conclusion: Depression is a common mental health problem among the elderly. Lower educational attainment, visual impairment, COPD, IHD, and increased perceived stress were significantly associated with depression. Routine screening for depression in elderly individuals, particularly those with sensory impairment and chronic medical illnesses, may facilitate early identification and timely intervention.
Evidence -Based Ayurvedic Management of Diabetes Mellitus Type ii (Prameha) : Case Study
One of the most prevalent illnesses or disorders that people experience over time is prameha. . It is growing daily and being passed down from one generation to the next. since it is a disorder brought on by dietary changes, changes in behaviors, and a sedentary lifestyle. Basically, vitiated vata and kapha are involved in this illness. This has an avarana of vata dosha on kapha dosha. herbs related to kapha-ghana should be used medicinally to counteract vitiated kapha dosha. Haridrad ghan vati is chosen for this study because she is thought to have kapha ghana qualities. For three months (12 weeks), patients received oral Haridra ghan vati 125mg twice a day treatment. A study showed that using haridra as a single medication therapy for diabetes control is both affordable and successful. It highlights Haridra's well-known anti-diabetic properties. This case study concerns a 45-year-old male patient who has been visiting an ayurvedic hospital in Wardha for at least a month. His primary complaints are polyurea, polyphagia, polydipsia, and general debility. Based on physical examination results and further studies, prameha (diabetes mellitus type-2) was diagnosed. Sanshamana aushadhi was used as part of the therapy regimen, which also included dietary and lifestyle changes. For a duration of three months, follow-up visits were conducted on a weekly basis. Substantial improvements were seen after three months of therapy.
Socio-Cultural Determinants of Drug Dependence and Mental Health Vulnerabilities in Tribal Youth Populations of Arunachal Pradesh
Drug abuse and substance use disorders (SUDs) continues to be a significant issue in Arunachal Pradesh, India worsening the public health challenges associated with mental health especially among the youths. This article explores the links between these challenges, particularly focusing on socio-cultural and economic factors. It delves into their underlying causes and consequences, highlighting the necessity for customized, integrated approaches that cater to the region’s specific needs, supported by local case studies. This review employs a narrative synthesis approach, drawing data from government reports, scholarly journals, government diaries, and rehabilitation centre reports focusing on publications in the last two decades.
Profiling Antisocial Personality Traits Among Pakistani Adults: Domain-Specific Differences Across Gender
Antisocial personality traits include a variety of socially dysfunctional or maladaptive behavioral, emotional and interpersonal attributes that lead to dysfunction within the individual or society (Fisher et al., 2024). Although a lot of research work has been conducted both nationally and internationally, there is little evidence available about the prevalence and domain-specific expression of antisocial personality traits among Pakistani adults (Marzilli et al., 2021). The purpose of this study was to profile antisocial personality characteristics and to compare differences between the various major domains of antisocial personality across gender. A quantitative cross sectional research design was used. A convenient sampling method was used to gather data from 567 adults in Pakistan. The antisocial personality traits were evaluated by the Antisocial Personality Disorder Test created by Skowroński (2022). IBM SPSS Statistics was used for descriptive statistics, classifications based on tertiles, chi-square analysis, and independent-samples t-tests. The scale had a good internal consistency (α = .88). The descriptive results showed that the most salient domains were egocentrism, risk taking, incapacity for intimate relationships, while physical aggression had the least mean score. Subjects were distributed about equally across low, moderate and high scores on the antisocial personality traits. Significant gender differences emerged for all antisocial personality traits, physical aggression, absence of prosocial standards, lack of guilt or remorse, failure to form intimate relationships, and risk taking; males scored higher than females. There were no significant gender differences for lack of empathy, egocentrism or manipulativeness. These were statistically significant results but in general small effect sizes. The results are consistent with the multidimensionality of the antisocial personality traits and indigenous information on prevalence and gender differences in the distribution of these traits among Pakistani adults. The findings stress the need for an assessment tailored to the specific context in order to gain a better understanding of antisocial personality functioning and to inform the development of culturally relevant prevention and intervention programs.
Maternal And Fetal Outcomes in Bipolar Disorder the Impact of Continuing Vs. Discontinuing Mood Stabilizers During Pregnancy
ABSTRACT Background: The perinatal period presents a major clinical challenge for women with bipolar disorder (BD). Concerns about teratogenic risk often lead to the discontinuation of mood-stabilizing medications, potentially increasing vulnerability to severe mood episodes. However, prospective data on this risk-benefit trade-off, particularly in non-Western health care settings, remain limited. Objective: To prospectively quantify the risk of mood episode recurrence during pregnancy in women with BD, comparing those who continued mood stabilizers with those who discontinued them around conception or in early pregnancy. Methods: This prospective observational cohort study was conducted at Ayub Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad, Pakistan, from July 1, 2025, to November 30, 2025. Euthymic pregnant women aged 18–45 years with a DSM-5-confirmed diagnosis of Bipolar I or II disorder and gestational age ≤24 weeks were enrolled. Consecutive sampling was used to recruit 86 women, who were categorized according to treatment status at conception or during early pregnancy: 38 in the continuation group and 48 in the discontinuation group. The primary outcome was the first recurrence of a DSM-5-defined mood episode (depressive, manic, hypomanic, or mixed). Group comparisons were performed using chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests. Time to recurrence was analyzed using Kaplan-Meier survival curves and the log-rank test. Multivariable Cox regression was planned to identify independent predictors of recurrence. Results: The discontinuation group had a significantly higher rate of unplanned pregnancies (64.6% vs 42.1%; p = 0.04) and greater baseline illness severity, characterized by a higher proportion of Bipolar II subtype (56.3% vs 31.6%; p = 0.02), longer illness duration (≥5 years: 66.7% vs 44.7%; p = 0.03), a history of rapid cycling (39.6% vs 18.4%; p = 0.03), and prior suicide attempts (33.3% vs 15.8%; p = 0.04). Lithium use was more common in continuers (52.6% vs 12.5%; p < 0.001). The cumulative incidence of any mood episode recurrence during pregnancy was significantly higher in the discontinuation group (62.5% vs 31.6%; p = 0.004), with the excess risk most pronounced in the first trimester (33.3% vs 7.9%). Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated a significantly shorter time to recurrence in the discontinuation group (log-rank test, p < 0.01). Conclusion: Discontinuation of mood-stabilizing medication in early pregnancy is associated with a significantly higher and earlier risk of mood episode recurrence. These findings from a Pakistani cohort underscore the need for individualized preconception risk-benefit counseling and integrated perinatal psychiatric care, particularly for women with markers of greater illness severity.
Psychological Distress and Coping Strategies among Postgraduate Medical Students: Implications for Mental Health Rehabilitation and Workforce Wellbeing
Residency training exposes medical trainees to prolonged work hours, academic pressure and emotionally demanding clinical situations. These stressors contribute to psychological distress, potentially affecting patient safety and long-term workforce sustainability. This cross-sectional study assessed the prevalence of psychological distress among postgraduate (PG) medical students using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21), evaluated coping strategies using the Brief COPE questionnaire and examined associations between stress and coping patterns from a psychiatric rehabilitation perspective. Methods: A total of 430 PG medical trainees from three medical colleges of India completed a structured online questionnaire including demographic details, DASS-21 and Brief COPE questionnaire. Scores were computed as per standardized guidelines. Subgroup differences across specialty (clinical vs non-clinical), year of training and institutional site were evaluated. Correlations between stress and coping patterns were analyzed to explore adaptive and maladaptive psychological responses. Results: Clinical specialties demonstrated significantly higher stress scores compared to non-clinical specialties (Mean=29.8 vs 21.4). First-year residents reported the highest distress, primarily associated with long duty hours (75–100 hours/week) and reduced autonomy. Active and support-seeking coping strategies predominated, while religious coping showed modest positive correlation with stress (r=.15). Avoidant coping remained low. Minimal institutional variation suggested systemic stressors across training environments. Conclusions: PG trainees experience considerable distress, most evident during early residency and across high-intensity clinical specialties. While adaptive coping is prevalent, elevated stress highlights the need for structured mental health rehabilitation strategies, duty-hour reforms and resilience-building interventions. Findings emphasize occupational mental health as a critical component of healthcare workforce sustainability.
The Influence of Social Media Beauty Filters and Digital Identity on Body Image (Body Dysmorphic Disorder), Eating habits (Eating Disorder) Among Teenagers and Young Adults in India
Social media beauty filters have become key to digital self-presentation and possibly intensifies appearance or look-based comparison, self-discrepancy, and self-objectification, thereby increasing vulnerability to body dysmorphic tendencies and disorganized eating. Guided by social comparison theory, self-discrepancy theory, and objectification theory, this mixed-methods study examined associations between beauty-filter use, body dysmorphic symptoms, and eating attitudes among Indian young adults. 30 participants aged 18–25 years (M = 21.8, SD = 1.31) completed the Body Dysmorphic Disorder Questionnaire (BDDQ; Phillips, 1996) primarily used as a screening tool to collect data only from the samples with ample body dysmorphic tendencies and the Eating Attitudes Test-26 (EAT-26; Garner et al., 1982), and semi-structured interviews were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) thematic framework. The results showed that using filters often was linked to more worries about body image and a tendency to eat in an unhealthy way. Thematic analysis found five main patterns of experience: people using filters to improve themselves and control their emotions; beauty standards in society making people anxious about their appearance; differences between their digital and real selves; self-worth based on online validation; and a growing awareness and resistance to unrealistic beauty ideals. The results show that beauty filters can boost confidence for a short time, but they also make people more self-conscious, unhappy, and dependent on feedback from others. These results show that Indian youth need programs that teach them how to use the media and mental health treatments that are sensitive to their culture to deal with filter-related dysmorphia.
A Study To Assess The Prevalence Of Disordered Eating Behaviour And Efficacy Of Structured Teaching Programme On Knowledge Regarding Eating Disorders Among Adolescent Girls In The Selected School Of Panchkula.
Abstract Eating disorders are characterized by significant and persistent disruption of eating behaviours, along with the accompanying distressing thoughts and emotions. These illnesses, which affect social, psychological, and physical functioning, can be quite harmful. In order to ascertain the prevalence of disordered eating behaviour and the efficacy of a structured teaching program on eating disorder knowledge among adolescent girls in the selected Panchkula school, a pre-experimental study was conducted. This study took into consideration a number of factors, including age, religion, family type, the educational backgrounds and occupations of the mother and father, the monthly income of the family, the weekly intake of fruits and vegetables, the weekly intake of junk food, and the number of meals consumed daily. There is no significant correlation between knowledge about eating disorders and religion, father's education, occupation, mother's education, occupation, family income, eating habits, weekly consumption of junk food, number of meals per day, and weekly consumption of fruits and vegetables, according to the calculated Chi square value, which is less than the table value at the 0.05 level of significance.
Hidden Trauma, Visible Symptoms: A Case Series of Adult Women Presenting With Psychiatric, Somatic, and Relational Sequelae of Childhood Sexual Abuse by Close Relatives
Background:Childhood sexual abuse by a trusted family member is a severe developmental trauma that may remain undisclosed for years and later manifest in adulthood through depression, post-traumatic symptoms, somatic complaints, sleep disturbance, suicidal behavior, emotional dysregulation, and impaired intimate relationships. Because many survivors present with nonspecific psychiatric or somatic symptoms, the underlying trauma may remain clinically unrecognized unless actively and sensitively explored. Case Presentations:We describe three adult women from a North Indian clinical setting who presented with diverse psychiatric and somatic symptoms and were later found to have histories of childhood sexual abuse by close male relatives. The patients were in early adulthood to mid-adulthood. Two were married and one was unmarried. Perpetrators included a biological father, brother, grandfather, and cousin. Presenting symptoms included persistent headaches, insomnia, disturbing dreams, depressive mood, panic symptoms, intrusive thoughts, memory difficulties, emotional numbness, obsessive relationship insecurity, social withdrawal, medication non-adherence, aggression, recurrent suicidal ideation, and multiple suicide attempts. Clinical formulations included post-traumatic stress disorder, complex trauma phenotype, recurrent depressive disorder, somatoform symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and borderline personality traits. Intervention:Management included psychiatric evaluation, pharmacotherapy where indicated, suicide-risk monitoring, psychoeducation, supportive counseling, grounding techniques, cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation, journaling, family or marital psychoeducation where appropriate, and phased trauma-focused psychotherapy after stabilization. Conclusion:Adult women with histories of childhood intra-familial sexual abuse may present with heterogeneous and seemingly unrelated symptoms, including chronic headache, insomnia, depression, suicidality, relationship insecurity, panic, and functional impairment. Sensitive trauma-informed assessment is essential in adult female patients with recurrent depression, unexplained somatic symptoms, relational instability, or self-harm risk.
Concept Of Social Health From The Perspective Of Ayurveda – A Critical Review.
Ayurveda strongly embraces the classical wisdom of social well-being, which is an important yet neglected aspect of holistic well-being. This ancient Indian science of life not only transcends the scope of physical and mental well-being but also encompasses life, ethical behaviour, and social coexistence. Ayurveda emphasizes a healthy condition that fosters balance not only in the body but also in the mind and with society. Concepts such as Sadvritta (noble conduct) or Achara Rasayana (rejuvenation through ethical behaviour) are timeless principles that keep society within the bounds of discipline, encourage compassion, and foster a sense of mutual respect. These principles were based on several values, including Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (non-stealing), and Dharma (righteous duty), which emphasize the importance of right speech, right action, and levelheadedness in our daily lives. Additionally, the Yogic practices of Yama and Niyama support social and individual morality, which eliminates the divide between personal well-being and the wellness of the community at large. The teachings of the classical world provide model solutions in a time when people are becoming increasingly isolated, mentally stressed, and tend to rib-scoring and segregation. Ayurveda holds promise in addressing current issues of societal maladaptation and displacement by reintroducing these concepts into contemporary lifestyles. This review paper aims to highlight the contributions of Ayurvedic wisdom to social health, peace, and the maintenance of a value-based social order.
The Psychological World of Lucifer: Psychoanalytical Understanding of the Netflix Series ‘Lucifer’
Abstract The paper analyzes the eponymous character of Lucifer Morningstar, as depicted in the Netflix series Lucifer. The character presents a rich tapestry of psychological themes that can be analyzed through various psychoanalytical concepts, such as the unconscious mind, repression, identity, sibling rivalry, parental control, trauma bonding, and the struggle between good and evil. The paper explores these themes in the Netflix TV series Lucifer, especially through the theories propounded by Freud and Jung and Maslow’s theory of self-actualization. The paper envisions the journey of Lucifer Morningstar, as portrayed in the Netflix show "Lucifer," offering a compelling ground for psychoanalytical exploration. Freudian analysis provides interesting insights into Lucifer’s struggles with desire, repression, and identity, while Jungian principles illuminate his journey toward self-discovery and integration of the shadow self. Through the psychoanalytical perspective, Lucifer’s character can be seen as embodying the complex dialectic between the conscious and unconscious mind, the shame, struggle, and quest for identity, redemption, self-understanding, trauma bonding, and self-actualization. This analysis incorporates broader concepts like the "Law of the Father" to bridge the gap between classical psychoanalysis and modern cultural studies. Incorporating work such as Dobrogoszcz's "Resisting the Oppressive Paternal Metaphor of God," 2022, this study further investigates how the protagonist’s narcissistic traits challenge conventional pathology by acting as a catalyst for his moral growth and emotional awakening (Islami et al., 2023). By integrating the trickster archetype, this study further explores how these disruptive tendencies facilitate the character's transition from a celestial exile to a nuanced agent of change (Zacharia & Sreena, 2025). Furthermore, this evolution reflects a shift from the historical, malevolent representations of the Devil to a contemporary characterization that functions as a mirror for modern societal dilemmas (Camargo et al., 2020).
Awareness, Knowledge, Attitude And Practice Of Physiotherapist Towards Diaphragmatic Breathing Techniques On Balance In Obese Individuals.
Obesity is linked with impaired postural stability, alters respiratory mechanism, contributing to balance dysfunction and increased risk of fall. Diaphragm plays a major role in stabilizing the trunk by regulating intra abdominal pressure. Although literature supports role of diaphragmatic breathing exercises in improving balance, the extent to which physiotherapist are aware, knowledgeable and practicing these technique in obese individuals remains unclear. Objective: To evaluate the awareness, knowledge, attitude and practice of physiotherapists regarding the use of diaphragm breathing technique for balance rehabilitation in obese individuals. Methodology: A structured questionnaire survey was conducted amongst 117 licensed physiotherapists based on inclusion/exclusion criteria. Results: 98.3% of physiotherapist’s demonstrated awareness of diaphragmatic breathing as a therapeutic technique and 92.3% recognized that obesity affects balance and stability; only 29% reported applying this intervention specific for balance rehabilitation in obese population. Lack of standardized protocol and time constraints were reported barriers to implementation. Conclusion: Inspite strong awareness and positive attitudes, clinical application of diaphragmatic breathing technique for balance rehabilitation in obese individuals remains suboptimal amongst physiotherapists.
Copyright (c) 2025 American Journal of Psychiatric Rehabilitation https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
EFFECT OF ACADEMIC EXAMINATION STRESS ON HAND GRIP STRENGTH AMONG FIRST-YEAR MEDICAL STUDENTS
: Examination stress is a predictable and recurrent stressor in medical education. While psychological consequences are well documented, its physiological effects on skeletal muscle function remain underexplored. Objective: To assess the effect of examination stress on skeletal muscle function among first-year medical students using handgrip dynamometer. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 first-year MBBS students (18–23 years). Measurements were taken during pre-examination (stressed) and post-examination (relaxed) phases. Stress was assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). Maximum Voluntary Contraction (MVC) and endurance time were recorded using hand grip dynamometer. Paired t-test/Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used for comparison. Results: PSS scores were significantly higher during the pre-examination phase (p < 0.001). MVC and endurance time were significantly reduced during the stressed state compared to the relaxed state (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Examination stress significantly reduces skeletal muscle strength and endurance. Early stress-management interventions may improve both psychological and physiological well-being among medical students.
“Prevalence Of Metabolic Syndrome In Alcohol Dependence: A Cross Sectional Study In Patients Coming To A Tertiary Hospital”
Background: Alcohol dependence syndrome (ADS) is associated with several physical health complications, including metabolic abnormalities. Metabolic syndrome (MS), characterized by central obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and impaired glucose metabolism, increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes mellitus. Aim: To determine the prevalence of metabolic syndrome among patients with alcohol dependence syndrome and to evaluate its clinical correlates. Methods: This cross-sectional comparative study included 50 patients diagnosed with alcohol dependence syndrome and 50 age-matched non-alcohol-dependent controls attending a tertiary care hospital. Diagnosis of ADS was made using ICD-10 criteria. Severity of alcohol use was assessed using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). Metabolic syndrome was diagnosed using the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III) criteria. Results: The mean age of patients with ADS was 38.9 ± 9.3 years, while that of controls was 36.9 ± 9.6 years. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 14% among patients with ADS compared with 4% among controls. Significant differences were observed between the groups in body mass index, waist circumference, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. Among patients with ADS, metabolic syndrome was significantly associated with body mass index, blood pressure, waist circumference, triglyceride levels, fasting blood glucose levels, and HDL cholesterol levels. Conclusion: Metabolic syndrome is common among patients with alcohol dependence syndrome and occurs more frequently than in non-alcohol-dependent controls. Routine screening for metabolic abnormalities in patients with ADS may facilitate early intervention and help reduce future cardiovascular and metabolic complications.
A CRITICAL STUDY OF SIRAMARMA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO APALAPA MARMA CHIKITSA
Background: The science of Ayurveda is timeless. Ayurvedic classics convey several ideas. Among them is the idea of Marma. One of the key subjects covered in Ayurveda is marmasharira. The body's marma is an essential component. The purpose of this study is to examine the regional anatomy of Apalapa Marma in relation to Sira Marma. Material and Methods: Modern science and traditional Ayurvedic literature. Marma dissection is carried out at the Apalapa location, and pertinent photos were collected. Observation and Results: Five cadavers were dissected for this study, and observations were made at the dissection site along with pertinent photos. The results of these observations were then tallied and shown. Discussion: The Apalapa marma is one among the urogata sira marma, and its location is in the upper part of the parshwa (flank), below the Amsakuta, having ½ angula in measurement. Conclusion: Consequences of trauma at the site of axilla and thoracic cavity resembles effect of injury as mentioned by Acharya Susruta for Apalapa Marma.
Forensic Psychology And Peace And Justice: Evidence-Based Approaches To Juvenile Offender Rehabilitation, Risk Assessment, And Reintegration
Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16) underlines peace, justice, and strong institutions and with focus on fair, effective, and rehabilitative justice systems. Juvenile justice is one of the areas of major concern in this objective since offending among the children is directly associated with developmental, psychological, and social factors. The paper examines how forensic psychology can help attaining SDG 16 by assessing juvenile offenders using evidence-based methods, rehabilitating and reintegrating them. Based on the international literature, the review integrates the results of structured risk assessment tools like ‘SAVRY, YLS/CMI, PREVI-A, and PCL:YV’, with specific focus on the ‘Risk-Need-Responsivity (RNR)’ framework. It has been shown that despite moderate predictive validity, structured assessment tools have consistent predictive validity and are better predictive compared to unstructured clinical judgment in pinpointing criminogenic needs and guiding intervention strategies. The paper also discusses successful rehabilitation and reintegration programs; highlighting intervention programs should focus on dynamic risk factors; it should include protective factors and take a developmentally informed, culturally responsive, gender-sensitive approach. Key challenges like implementation fidelity, cultural adaptation and continuity of care, are also addressed. The review finds that forensic psychology can provide viable, evidence-based avenues to minimize recidivism, safeguard vulnerable youth, and enhance institutional efficacy, which in turn can impact positively on the realization of SDG 16 in juvenile justice systems.
The Cost of Being the Ideal Girl: Self Silencing associated with Eating Attitude, Emotional Suppression, and identity Conflict in Indian Youth
Gender roles in India often strengthen obedience, modesty, and self-sacrifice, shaping how girls, adolescent and young women learn to regulate their emotions and construct their identities. Grounded in Self-Silencing Theory (Jack, 1991) and the process model of emotion regulation (Gross & John, 2003), this study examined how self-silencing patterns and emotion-regulation strategies relate to eating behavior, psychological well-being and identity formation among Indian adolescent girls and young women. Using a concurrent mixed-method design, 30 participants aged 18–25 years (M = 21.8, SD = 1.31) completed the Silencing the Self Scale (Jack & Dill, 1992) and the Eating Attitudes Test-26 (EAT-26; Garner et al., 1982), Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (Gross & John, 2003), while the Draw-A-Person Test (Machover, 1949; Hammer, 1997) was used to project qualitative indicators of personality and emotional functioning. Quantitative findings revealed significant associations within the domains of externalized self-perception with disordered eating attitudes (r = .410; R² = .168), divided self with expressive suppression (r = .493), and cognitive reappraisal with oral-control tendencies (r = .397). Regression analyses showed that self-silencing dimensions accounted for 16.8% to 24.4% of variance across outcomes. Qualitative DAP themes reflected emotional inhibition, fragile self-concept, identity instability, dependency–autonomy conflict and suppressed aggression. Overall, the results suggest that cultural expectations of the “ideal girl” may foster self-silencing, maladaptive emotion regulation, and psychological strain, underscoring the need for gender-responsive mental-health interventions that promote autonomy, authentic self-expression, and healthier coping.