Topic > Treating Hindu people with psychiatric illnesses

Psychiatric help in Hindu culture has been on the rise for years. As he continues to immerse himself in the Hindu religion, it becomes important that it coincides with their beliefs. Considering that Hindus have different beliefs than those of the Western world, psychiatrists must adopt different treatment approaches when helping them with their mental illness problems. In the articles written by Ajit Avasthi, S. Chattopadhyay and Nalini V. Juthani the manner in which treatment should be rendered to the Hindu people is revealed. Each article emphasizes that without this information it is difficult for the psychiatrist to assist the patient or his family. It is of fundamental importance that the mental health professional conducts a treatment course that does not offend him or make him feel disrespected in any way. They describe the “rules” a psychiatrist must follow to provide high-quality mental health care. Furthermore, emphasis is placed on the importance of the general knowledge that the psychiatrist should have about the religion of Hinduism. In Juthani's article he talks about how Hindus should be treated when receiving psychiatric treatment. It begins by explaining some of the basics of Hinduism. Continuing, he emphasizes the notion of a creator; which defines Atman (Self). Atman is the understanding that this divine being is also found within every person; therefore they also in return are Atman. He then alludes to the importance of teaching that all life is sacred. Hindus strongly believe that God lives in every person and therefore they should be treated that way. It is then that Ahimsa, or the practice of non-violence with emphasis on respect for other people, is born. He then reflects on Karma and Reincarnation. In Hindu culture, people believe that every