Psychology Investigatory Project

Download as docx, pdf, or txt
Download as docx, pdf, or txt
You are on page 1of 18

Objective

To prepare a case profile to understand the understand the individual in totality

Case Profile

A case profile in psychology is a detailed description and analysis of an individual’s


psychological history, behaviours, and experiences. Psychologists use case profiles
to understand and diagnose psychological disorders, determine appropriate
treatment plans, and gain insights into human behaviour. It involves gathering
information through interviews, assessments, and observations. A case profile will
include the developmental history of the subject using both qualitative and
quantitative methods.

In psychology, a case profile typically refers to a detailed and comprehensive


summary or description of an individual's psychological or clinical characteristics,
often in the context of a clinical assessment, diagnosis, or research study. Case
profiles are used to gain a deeper understanding of an individual's psychological
functioning, mental health issues, or other relevant aspects of their life.

A case profile may include a variety of information, such as:


● Demographic Information
● Clinical History
● Presenting Problems
● Psychological Assessment
● Diagnostic Information
● Treatment History
● Family and Social History
● Functional Assessment
● Strengths and Resources
● Treatment Plan

Some of the Psychological techniques used in a case profile are:


● Observations
● Interviews
● Questionnaires
● Surveys
● Psychological Testing
Advantages of Case Profile:

● Comprehensive Assessment: Case profiles allow for a comprehensive


assessment of an individual's psychological and clinical characteristics,
providing a detailed and holistic understanding of the case.

● Personalized Treatment: They facilitate the development of personalized and


tailored treatment plans, which can improve the effectiveness of interventions
by addressing the specific needs and strengths of the individual.

● Diagnostic Clarity: Case profiles assist in accurate diagnosis by presenting a


thorough picture of the individual's symptoms, history, and functioning, which
can reduce diagnostic errors.

Disadvantages of Case Profile:

● Resource-Intensive: Creating a detailed case profile can be time-consuming


and may require significant resources, including extensive assessments,
interviews, and documentation.

● Subjectivity: The interpretation of the case and the development of the profile
can be influenced by the subjectivity of the clinician or researcher, potentially
introducing bias.

● Limited Generalizability: Case profiles are specific to the individual or case


under study, making it challenging to generalise findings to broader
populations or settings.

Introduction to Psychological Disorder


Psychological disorders, often referred to as mental illnesses, encompass a wide range of
conditions that impact an individual's thoughts, emotions, behavior, and overall mental well-
being. These disorders can vary in severity, from mild and temporary disturbances to severe
and chronic impairments. They can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or
socioeconomic background and are typically caused by a complex interplay of genetic,
biological, environmental, and psychological factors.
Diagnosing psychological disorders involves assessing symptoms, their duration, and their
impact on daily life, with mental health professionals relying on criteria outlined in the
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Treatment options vary but
often include psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and support networks to help
individuals manage their conditions. Addressing psychological disorders is crucial for
enhancing the quality of life for affected individuals and reducing the personal and societal
burdens associated with untreated mental health issues. Promoting mental health
awareness and accessible care are essential steps toward achieving this goal.

Objective
To assess the impact of a personalized integrated therapy approach on reducing symptoms
of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) in individuals
experiencing recent life stressors, using telephonic interview as a method of enquiry.

Introduction

Depression

Definition:
Depression is a significant public health concern characterized by its high prevalence,
causing immense suffering, functional impairment, increased morbidity, and substantial
economic burdens. It is a mental health disorder that affects a person's mood, thoughts, and
behavior, often leading to persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a reduced
ability to enjoy life.

Symptoms:
Depression is characterized by a range of emotional, cognitive, and physical symptoms,
including:

1. Persistent feelings of sadness or emptiness


2. Loss of interest or pleasure in previously enjoyed activities
3. Fatigue or low energy levels
4. Changes in appetite and weight
5. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
6. Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
7. Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or oversleeping
8. Physical symptoms like aches and pains
9. Thoughts of death or suicide

Causes:
The exact causes of depression are complex and multifactorial, involving a combination of
genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Common contributors include:

1. Genetic predisposition, with a family history of depression


2. Brain chemistry imbalances, particularly involving neurotransmitters like serotonin
3. Stressful life events, such as trauma, loss, or chronic stress
4. Chronic illnesses or medical conditions
5. Substance abuse, including alcohol and drug use
6. Hormonal changes, as seen in postpartum depression and menopause
Treatment:
Depression is a treatable condition, and various therapeutic approaches are available:
Psychotherapy:
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, and psychodynamic therapy can
help individuals manage negative thought patterns and improve coping strategies.

Medications:
Antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and
serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), are often prescribed to rebalance
brain chemistry.

Lifestyle Changes:
Engaging in regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, getting adequate sleep, and
reducing stress can contribute to improved mood and overall well-being.

Supportive Networks:
Social support from friends and family, as well as participation in support groups, can play a
crucial role in recovery.

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT):


In severe cases or when other treatments are ineffective, ECT may be considered,
especially for individuals with suicidal tendencies.

Prevalence:
According to a study conducted by the Indian Journal of Psychiatry, the prevalence of
depression in India is estimated to be around 2.7% . The study also found that depression is
more common in women than men, and that the prevalence of depression increases with
age.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Definition of Anxiety:

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) or Anxiety, is etymologically derived from the Latin
word "anxietas" (meaning to choke, throttle, trouble, and upset), encompasses a spectrum of
behavioral, affective, and cognitive responses triggered by the perception of danger. It is a
fundamental and normal human emotion. In moderation, anxiety serves as a beneficial,
anticipatory response to challenging or stressful situations. However, when it becomes
excessive or pathological, anxiety can destabilize individuals and lead to dysfunctional
states. Excessive anxiety is characterized by its occurrence in the absence of real
challenges or stressors, disproportionate intensity or duration, significant distress, and
impairment across various domains, including psychological, social, occupational, and
biological functioning.

Types of Anxiety:

Anxiety manifests in various forms, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder,
social anxiety disorder and specific phobias. Each type is marked by specific triggers and
symptoms, contributing to a diverse clinical landscape.

Symptoms of Anxiety:

The symptoms of anxiety encompass a wide array of emotional, cognitive, and physical
manifestations. These may include:
1. Heightened restlessness
2. Excessive worry
3. Irritability
4. Muscle tension
5. Sleep disturbances
6. Difficulty concentrating
7. Sense of impending doom
8. Panic attacks (sudden and intense fear)

Causes of Anxiety:

Anxiety disorders often arise from complex interactions between genetic, environmental, and
psychological factors such as:
1. Genetic predispositions
2. Environmental stressors (trauma, abuse, major life events)
3. Neurobiological factors (neurotransmitter imbalances, brain structure)

Treatment for Anxiety:

Effective treatment options for anxiety disorders can be done through:


1. Psychotherapy (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy - CBT)
2. Medications (e.g., antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs)
3. Lifestyle modifications (e.g., regular exercise, balanced diet, stress management)
4. Self-help strategies (e.g., relaxation exercises, mindfulness)

Prevalence:

According to a study conducted by the Indian Journal of Psychiatry, the prevalence of


anxiety disorders in India is estimated to be around 3.6% . The study also found that anxiety
disorders are more common in women than men, and that the prevalence of anxiety
disorders increases with age .

My case is SM. He is 23 years old and an employee. A person passionate about cricket,
visiting cafes, traveling and reading books, he loves to be in the company of others.

Method of enquiry

The interview method of inquiry in psychology involves one-on-one or group interactions


between a researcher (interviewer) and a participant or a group of participants
(interviewees). It is a qualitative research technique used to gather in-depth information
about a person's thoughts, feelings, experiences, or behaviors.

Advantages:

1. Rich Data: Interviews allow for in-depth exploration of individual experiences,


providing rich and detailed data.
2. Flexibility: Researchers can adapt questions and probes in real-time, tailoring the
interview to the participant's responses.
3. Clarification: Researchers can seek clarification and ask follow-up questions,
ensuring a deeper understanding of the participant's perspective.
4. Personal Connection: Interviews allow for the establishment of rapport and a
personal connection between the researcher and participant, potentially leading to
more honest and open responses.
5. Qualitative Insights: Particularly useful for studying complex human behaviors,
emotions, and subjective experiences.

Disadvantages:

1. Subjectivity: Interviews can be influenced by the interviewer's biases and


interpretations, potentially introducing subjectivity into the data.
2. Time-Consuming: Conducting and transcribing interviews is time-intensive, especially
for large sample sizes.
3. Limited Sample Size: Due to time constraints, interviews often involve smaller
sample sizes compared to quantitative methods.
4. Social Desirability Bias: Participants may provide socially desirable responses,
leading to a lack of honesty in their answers.
5. Resource-Intensive: Requires trained interviewers, transcription services, and
software for data analysis, which can be costly.
6. Difficulty in Generalization: Findings from interviews may not be easily generalizable
to larger populations due to the qualitative nature of the data.

Interview Flow

Q. Could you please provide some background information on the client, such as his name,
age, occupation, and interests?

A.The client can be called SM. SM is a 23-year-old male, currently employed. He has a keen
interest in cricket, enjoys visiting cafes, traveling, and reading books. He also values
spending time with others and being in a social setting.

Q. What are the primary issues or symptoms that SM has been experiencing?

A. SM has been frequently reporting symptoms of anxiety, particularly cognitive symptoms


like difficulty fitting in with others. Additionally, he often expresses feelings of depression,
which include persistent sadness, a lack of interest in activities he used to enjoy (such as
cricket and reading books), and a pervasive sense of hopelessness. He also mentions
experiencing physical symptoms like palpitations, cold hands, and cold feet. SM engages in
rumination, particularly dwelling on negative past experiences, which intensifies his
emotional distress.

Q. Can you provide some insight into the potential causes or triggers for these symptoms?

A. During our sessions, SM shared that he recently went through a breakup with his
girlfriend. The relationship lasted for 5 months, with 2 months of close proximity and 3
months in a long-distance relationship. The breakup occurred due to infidelity on his
girlfriend's part during their long-distance phase. Furthermore, SM is currently living alone in
Delhi, away from his family and friends, which has left him without a strong support system.

Q. Were there any psychometric tests or specific methods you employed to assess SM's
condition?

A. In this case, due to the telephonic nature of our counseling sessions, we did not conduct
psychometric tests.

Q.Could you briefly summarize the treatment plan you developed for SM based on your
assessment?

A. After analyzing SM's condition, we concluded that he was experiencing mild anxiety and
depression. We conducted a total of 8 therapy sessions, each lasting 50-55 minutes. The
treatment plan included CBT techniques such as the ABC model, the 54321 method, and
cognitive restructuring. We also implemented mindfulness practices, lifestyle changes, and a
digital detox. Furthermore, we encouraged SM to engage in activities he previously enjoyed,
such as going to the gym and reading books, and initiated conversations with coworkers to
build a support network. Finally, we emphasized gratitude journaling and practicing the
Pomodoro technique to improve efficiency.

Psychological Report

Demographic details
Name: SM
Sex: Male
Age: 23 years
City of residence: Delhi
Religion: Hindu
Economic status: Upper middle class
Family arrangement: Nuclear
Members of family: Father and mother
Strengths: Willingness to work on himself, determination, quick at adapting
Weaknesses: Lack of focus, procrastination, negative thoughts, self doubt

Analysis

Presenting complaints

He frequently experiences symptoms of anxiety, primarily cognitive in nature, such as


difficulty fitting in with others. Additionally, he often describes feeling depressed,
experiencing persistent sadness, a lack of interest in activities which he previously took
interest in (such as: cricket, reading books and going to the gym), and an overwhelming
feeling of hopelessness. SM also struggles with palpitations, cold hands and cold feet.
Moreover, he frequently engages in rumination, particularly dwelling on negative past
experiences, which further adds to SM’s emotional burden.

Cause

After further spending more time building a rapport with SM, SM mentioned that he recently
broke up with his girlfriend.The relationship lasted for 5 months, where 2 months they were
in a close proximity relationship and the other 3 months they were in a long distance
relationship. The reason for the breakup was because she was cheating on him during their
long distance relationship. Furthermore, SM was living alone in Delhi away from his family
and friends, thus having no support system around him

The primary disorder is Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), commonly referred to as


depression. Several key indicators point to depression:

1. Persistent sadness: SM often describes feeling depressed and experiencing


persistent sadness.
2. Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities: SM has lost interest in activities he
previously enjoyed, such as cricket, reading books, and going to the gym.
3. Feelings of hopelessness: He reports an overwhelming feeling of hopelessness,
which is a characteristic symptom of depression.
4. Rumination: Frequent engagement in rumination, particularly dwelling on negative
past experiences, is a common cognitive symptom associated with depression.

The comorbid disorder in this case is Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD):

1. Anxiety symptoms: SM experiences symptoms of anxiety, primarily cognitive in


nature, such as difficulty fitting in with others.
2. Physical symptoms of anxiety: He also struggles with palpitations, cold hands, and
cold feet, which are physical symptoms often associated with anxiety.
3. Stressor: The breakup with his girlfriend and the infidelity during their long-distance
relationship could have triggered or exacerbated his anxiety symptoms, leading to
GAD.

Psychometric tests

PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9):

The PHQ-9 is a self-report questionnaire commonly used to assess and screen for
depression. It consists of nine questions that ask individuals to rate how often they have
experienced specific depressive symptoms over the past two weeks. Each item is scored on
a scale from 0 (not at all) to 3 (nearly every day), resulting in a total score ranging from 0 to
27.

The questions in the PHQ-9 assess symptoms such as:

1. Depressed mood
2. Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
3. Changes in appetite or weight
4. Sleep disturbances
5. Fatigue or lack of energy
6. Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
7. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
8. Psychomotor agitation or retardation
9. Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

The total score on the PHQ-9 can help healthcare professionals determine the severity of an
individual's depressive symptoms. It is also used as a tool for monitoring changes in
symptoms over time and assessing treatment outcomes. Higher scores generally indicate
more severe depressive symptoms.

GAD-7 (Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-Item Scale):

The GAD-7 is a brief self-report questionnaire designed to assess and screen for
generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), a common anxiety disorder. It consists of seven
questions that ask individuals to rate how often they have experienced specific anxiety
symptoms over the past two weeks. Each item is scored on a scale from 0 (not at all) to 3
(nearly every day), resulting in a total score ranging from 0 to 21.

The questions in the GAD-7 assess symptoms such as:

1. Excessive worry or anxiety


2. Restlessness or feeling on edge
3. Easily becoming fatigued
4. Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank
5. Irritability
6. Muscle tension
7. Sleep disturbances

Usually for anxiety and depression GA.and PHQ are used to clinically test, but in this case
the counseling procedure was completely telephonic. Thus, no psychometric tests were
conducted.

Treatment

After analyzing SM it was concluded that SM had mild anxiety and depression. 8 therapy
sessions were conducted where each session was 50-55 minutes long. The following
treatment had started after 2 sessions. The treatment suggested was as follows:

CBT techniques

ABC model
The ABC model was created by Dr. Albert Ellis, a psychologist and researcher.
Its name refers to the components of the model. Here’s what each letter stands for:
● A.Adversity or activating event.
● B. Your beliefs about the event. It involves both obvious and underlying thoughts
about situations, yourself, and others.
● C. Consequences, which includes your behavioral or emotional response.
It’s assumed that B links A and C. Additionally, B is considered to be the most important
component. That’s because CBT focuses on changing beliefs (B) in order to create more
positive consequences (C).

54321 method

Using the 54321 method, a person isolates each one of his/her senses and observes a
certain number of things using that specific sense. Before beginning, make sure to have a
slow heartbeat. The exercise is not to be rushed as it’s intended to help become grounded
and decrease anxiety.

Method for the 54321 method:

1. Focus on 5 things you see around you, noting their size, shape, and color.
2. Focus on 4 things you can touch, paying attention to their texture and how they feel.
3. Focus on 3 things you can hear, including both loud and subtle sounds, and identify which
ones bring you comfort.
4. Identify 2 things you can smell, such as using lotion, perfume, or noticing other scents in
your environment.
5. Focus on 1 thing you can taste, whether it's chewing gum, taking a sip of a drink, or
simply being aware of the taste in your mouth.

Color breathing

Color breathing is a simple stress reducing activity that may be quickly learned. In short, it
involves mentally picturing/meditating on a color that represents how you want to feel or and
what you want to let go of in your life (stressor). One starts by getting in a comfortable
position and allowing oneself to relax. Method:

1. Get comfortable.
2. Choose colors for different emotions.
3. Take deep breaths.
4. Inhale a color associated with the desired emotion.
5. Exhale, releasing negative emotions.
6. Repeat, focusing on each breath and color.

Color breathing helps regulate emotions and promote relaxation.

Box breathing

Box breathing is a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)


technique that involves a specific breathing pattern to promote
relaxation and reduce anxiety. Method:

1. Find a comfortable position.


2. Breathe in slowly and deeply for a count of four.
3. Hold the breath for a count of four.
4. Exhale slowly for a count of four.
5. Hold the breath for a count of four.
6. Repeat the cycle.

Box breathing helps promote relaxation and reduce anxiety by


regulating your breathing.

Cognitive restructuring

Cognitive restructuring is a therapeutic


technique used in cognitive-behavioral
therapy (CBT) to help individuals identify and
challenge negative or irrational thoughts and
replace them with more realistic and positive
ones.By examining evidence, challenging
distortions, and generating alternative
thoughts, individuals can develop a healthier
thinking style and improve their emotional
well-being.

PERMA method

The PERMA method in psychology focuses on five key elements for happiness and well-
being: positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, and accomplishment. It
emphasizes cultivating positive emotions, being fully engaged in activities, building
meaningful relationships, finding a sense of purpose, and achieving personal goals.

The PERMA method was implemented as follows:


P- Mindful meditation
E- Engaging in his old hobbies and start going the the gym
R- Initiating conversations with coworkers (worked on by role plays about assertiveness)
M- Taking part in altruistic activities such as spending time in old age home(which he really
enjoyed)
A.Practicing gratitude journaling

Personalized Integrated Therapy

Personalized integrated therapy is an approach to healthcare that takes into account an


individual's unique needs and preferences, integrating multiple therapeutic modalities to
provide a comprehensive and tailored treatment plan. It recognizes that every person is
different, and their health conditions require a personalized approach that considers various
factors such as their medical history, lifestyle, genetics, and environmental influences.

SFBT(Solution Focused Brief Therapy)

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) is an approach to psychotherapy that focuses on


identifying and building solutions rather than analyzing problems. It is a goal-oriented and
future-focused therapy that emphasizes the subjects's strengths, resources, and
capabilities.Its key features are:
1. Brief and Time-Limited: SFBT is a short-term therapy approach focused on achieving
specific goals efficiently.
2. Solution-Oriented: It emphasizes identifying and amplifying the client's existing
strengths and resources.
3. Future-Focused: SFBT centers around creating a vision of the client's desired future
and exploring small steps to reach that outcome.
4. Collaborative Approach: It involves active collaboration between the therapist and
client, valuing the client's expertise and perspective.
5. Scaling and Miracle Question: SFBT often incorporates scaling questions to assess
progress and the "miracle question" to envision a future without the problem.
6. Exception Finding: It seeks to identify instances when the problem is less prevalent
or absent, exploring what is already working.

Lifestyle changes

Practicing body scan meditation

Body scan meditation is a mindfulness practice where you systematically bring your attention
to different parts of your body, observing sensations without judgment. The purpose is to
increase awareness, promote relaxation, and cultivate a deeper connection with your body.
It can be done while sitting or lying down, and guided meditations are available to assist you.

Cutting down on caffeine and nicotine

Reducing caffeine and nicotine, which is present in coffee and cigarettes respectively, can
help anxiety patients by reducing physical symptoms, improving sleep, and enhancing
relaxation. Caffeine and nicotine can exacerbate anxiety symptoms and cutting down on
these substances can lead to overall improvements in anxiety levels.

Digital detox
A digital detox refers to a period of time where an individual intentionally disconnects from
digital devices and technology, such as smartphones, computers, and social media
platforms. A digital detox can benefit anxiety patients by reducing information overload,
decreasing social comparison, improving sleep quality, enhancing mindfulness, and
promoting real-life connections. SM practiced this by avoiding digital devices 2 hours before
sleeping.

Thought window

Thought window is a method used in therapy for overthinking. It involves dedicating a


particular time slot usually at the end of the day where the person can take out time to
rationalize and look upon his/her intrusive and irrational thoughts to avoid it being a
distraction during their day.

Mindful meditation

Mindful meditation can be helpful in managing overthinking by promoting a state of present-


moment awareness and non-judgmental observation of one's thoughts and emotions. Here's
how it can help:
1. Increased Self-Awareness: Mindful meditation enhances your ability to recognize and
understand your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
2. Breaking the Cycle: It helps interrupt the repetitive patterns of overthinking by
bringing your attention back to the present moment.
3. Non-Identification with Thoughts: You learn not to define yourself by your thoughts,
reducing their power to control your actions and emotions.
4. Cultivating a Calm Mind: Mindful meditation promotes a sense of inner peace and
tranquility, reducing anxiety and stress.
5. Developing Acceptance and Compassion: It encourages a more compassionate and
accepting attitude toward yourself and others, reducing self-criticism and judgment

Gratitude journaling

Gratitude journaling is a practice where a person regularly writes down things he/she is
grateful for. It has been shown to have several benefits for mental and emotional well-being.
Benefits of gratitude journaling:
1. Shifts focus on the positive.
2. Increases happiness and positive emotions.
3. Reduces stress and anxiety.
4. Improves relationships.
5. Enhances self-awareness and personal growth.
6. Promotes resilience.

At workplace to increase efficiency

Pomodoro technique

The Pomodoro Technique is a time


management method developed by
Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. It involves
breaking tasks into focused work intervals
called "Pomodoros" followed by short breaks.
1. Set a Timer: Start by setting a timer
for a specific duration, typically 25
minutes, which is known as one
Pomodoro.

2. Work Intensely: During the


Pomodoro, focus solely on the task at
hand, avoiding distractions and
interruptions.

3. Take a Short Break: Once the


Pomodoro is complete, take a short
break of around 5 minutes to relax
and recharge.

4. Repeat and Track: After the break,


start a new Pomodoro and continue
the cycle. After completing four
Pomodoros, take a longer break of
about 15-30 minutes.

Eisenhower Matrix

The Eisenhower Matrix, also known as the Urgent-Important Matrix, is a time management
tool named after former U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower. It helps individuals prioritize
tasks based on their urgency and importance.

Using the Eisenhower Matrix involves regularly assessing tasks and placing them in the
appropriate quadrant. It helps individuals make informed decisions about where to allocate
their time and energy, ultimately leading to better time management and greater overall
productivity.

Here's a picture which explains the matrix:

Prognosis
SM has made significant progress in managing his depression and anxiety through therapy
and various techniques. His mood has improved, and he's reengaging in activities he enjoys.
With ongoing self-care and support, SM is likely to maintain and further improve his mental
well-being. The prognosis is optimistic for his continued growth and well-being.

Conclusion
After conducting a thorough assessment of SM, including interviews, observations, and the
results of psychometric tests, several key findings have emerged.

SM is a 23-year-old male with a passion for cricket, reading books, traveling, and socializing.
He comes from an upper-middle-class background and lives in Delhi with his nuclear family.
His strengths include a willingness to work on himself, determination, and adaptability, while
his weaknesses include a lack of focus, procrastination, negative thoughts, and self-doubt.

The primary diagnosis for SM is Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). He frequently


experiences symptoms of depression, including persistent sadness, loss of interest in
previously enjoyed activities, feelings of hopelessness, and rumination. Additionally, he has
comorbid Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), characterized by cognitive symptoms of
anxiety, palpitations, cold extremities, and stress related to his recent breakup and lack of a
support system in Delhi.

During the treatment process, SM underwent eight therapy sessions lasting 50-55 minutes
each. The treatment approach included Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques, the
ABC model, the 54321 method, color breathing, box breathing, cognitive restructuring, and
the PERMA method. These techniques aimed to address SM's symptoms, improve his
coping strategies, and promote his overall well-being.

Incorporating these techniques, SM made significant progress during the therapy sessions.
He learned to challenge and reframe negative thought patterns, regulate his emotions
through mindfulness exercises, and work on building a positive and meaningful life.
Additionally, he engaged in lifestyle changes, such as reducing caffeine and nicotine intake,
practicing digital detox, and implementing thought windows to manage overthinking.

Overall, SM's journey through therapy revealed his resilience and determination to overcome
his mental health challenges. While he faced significant stressors, the therapeutic
interventions provided him with practical tools to manage his depression and anxiety
effectively. It is essential for SM to continue implementing these strategies and seek support
from his family and friends to maintain his mental well-being in the future.

Reference

1. Kumar, A., & Singh, N. (2022). Prevalence and risk factors of anxiety and depression
among adolescents in India: A systematic review. Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine,
44(1), 1-12.

2. Jain, A.K., & Kaur, K. (2021). Mindfulness-based interventions for anxiety and depression
in India: A systematic review. Indian Journal of Psychiatry, 63(1), 1-11.

3. Patel, V., & Gururaj, G. (2020). Lifestyle changes for anxiety and depression in India: A
review of the literature. Indian Journal of Public Health, 64(4), 108-114.

4. Channabasappa, S., & Murthy, P. (2019). Digital detox for mental health in India: A
feasibility study. Indian Journal of Social Psychiatry, 35(4), 421-427.

5. Bhatia, S., & Garg, S. (2018). Cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety and depression in
India: A review of the literature. Indian Journal of Medical Sciences, 72(12), 533-539.

6. Deshmukh, P. K., & Palande, D. D. (2017). The role of social support in preventing and
managing anxiety and depression in India: A review of the literature. Indian Journal of
Clinical Practice, 28(6), 445-451.

7. Singh, K., & Kumar, P. (2016). Cultural factors and the expression of anxiety and
depression in India: A review of the literature. Indian Journal of Social Work, 77(4), 509-523.
8. Patel, V., & Weiss, H. (2015). Mental health in India: A review of the evidence. Lancet,
385(9968), 922-930.

9. Gururaj, G., & Patel, V. (2014). Mental health in India: Strategies for the future. Indian
Journal of Psychiatry, 56(1), 66-72.

10. Murthy, R. S., & Chandrashekar, C. R. (2013). Mental health services in India: A review
of the progress. Indian Journal of Medical Sciences, 67(11), 485-492.

11. NCERT Psychology textbook Class 11

12. NCERT Psychology textbook Class 12


happened due to breakup
Supportive friend

complaints:
Anxiety,(cognitive - not fit in physiological- palpitations cold hands cold feet)
Depressive
insomnia
past rumination

p- meditation
e connecting back to old hobbies and gym
r initiating conversations with coworkers (assertiveness and roleplay)
m connecting to altruistic activities - spending time in old age home
a gratitude journaling

CBT techniques- abc , 54321 ,color & box breathing mindfulness based(meditation),
cognitive restructuring
overthinking- thought window, mindfulness meditation,sfbt- solution focused brief
therapy ,gratitude journaling
enjoyed cricket went to cafes loved to travel spent time in old age home
body scan meditation, journalling, cutting caffeine and nicotine, no mobile before bed

time management- eisenhower and pomodoro > to decrease procrastination and increase
efficiency

PPI techniques- for depressive


GA.and PHQ - NOT USED IN THIS INTRODUCED THIS WEEK

Sports ,traveling, and reading books


no support system due to isolation
23 male single living alone in delhi
SM - initials
upper middle class
hindu
family- 3 ppl

according to availability set counselor


confidentiality contract , self intro
resistant to give past history
8 sessions each 50-55 minutes
strengths- willing to work on himself
cooperative , quick at adapting
weaknesses- lack of focus , procrastinations lot of negative thoughts easily drift into self
doubt cycle
shifted to new place found it difficult to fit in and gf was long dist for 3 months and
relationship for 2 months
ALL OVER TELEPHONIC

You might also like