Meditation as a Therapeutic Tool for Boosting Mental Health during COVID-19 Times

International Journal of Humanities and Social Science

© 2021 by SSRG - IJHSS Journal

Volume 8 Issue 2

Year of Publication : 2021

Authors : Pummy Sheoran

10.14445/23942703/IJHSS-V8I2P107

How to Cite?

Pummy Sheoran, "Meditation as a Therapeutic Tool for Boosting Mental Health during COVID-19 Times," SSRG International Journal of Humanities and Social Science, vol. 8,  no. 2, pp. 37-41, 2021. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23942703/IJHSS-V8I2P107

Abstract:

COVID-19 is presenting a serious challenge not only to the physical health but also to the mental health of the people across the globe. Amidst the fear, anxiety, insecurity, isolation, boredom, frustration, deprivation, and financial difficulties, mental health problems are on the rise. There is also a reported increase in suicidal behavior as a fall out of these difficult times. Alternative therapies like meditation and mindfulness have shown promising results in the improvement of psychological well-being in the pre-covid times. The present study was designed to evaluate the impact of meditation-based intervention in boosting the mental health of participants during these times of uncertainty and unpredictability. To determine the effectiveness of this intervention, a within group pre-test and post-test design was used. A total of 64 participants were assessed on their mental health scores using the Mental Health Continuum (MHC-SF) scale. After an eight weeks meditation practice program facilitated by an expert over Zoom, the participants showed a significant improvement in their mental health scores. The study suggests that meditation practice can be considered as a complementary or alternative therapy in the treatment of mental health problems arising due to unpredictable and challenging situations.

Keywords:

Alternative Therapy, COVID-19, Meditation, Mental Health, Psychological Interventions

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