Societal Stigma Research Articles

Mitigating stuttering self-stigma: How do we start and where do we go? Using a Participative Concept Mapping Approach to develop a local framework of principles

PurposeThis study aims to create a stigma reduction framework for stuttering in the local context of Québec, Canada using the Participative Concept Mapping Approach (PCMA), focusing on both self and societal stigma. MethodEmploying a mixed-methods approach, this study engaged 17 experts—people who stutter, clinicians and health innovation specialists—in PCMA workshops. Via diverse steps, including generation, sorting and rating of ideas in response to the focus prompt, "To effectively address stuttering (self-)stigma, an intervention should…" these sessions led to a framework depicted in visual maps, then refined into actionable principles through qualitative analysis. Mixed-methods data analysis used the open-source R-CMap software to generate visual maps illustrating the relationships among ideas as well as importance and feasibility ratings. ResultsThe collaborative workshops identified 95 ideas in response to the focus prompt, reunited in 7 clusters, evolving into 16 principles to mitigate stuttering stigma and self-stigma. At the therapy level, these principles emphasize personalized therapy, thorough assessments, stigma-free therapeutic environment, empowerment, and the importance of group inclusivity and educating the relational circles. Societally, they advocate for initiatives such as improved educational outreach, empathy enhancement, and better representation. This dual approach targets individual experiences and societal views on stuttering, stressing the need for an all-encompassing intervention framework. ConclusionThe findings demonstrate PCMA's usefulness in crafting local, culturally sensitive, tailored interventions for stigma reduction. The study emphasizes the necessity of holistic approaches that address individual experiences and societal perceptions, offering a model to conduct similar exercises in diverse local settings.

Promoting Adolescent Suicide Prevention Programmes in Pakistan: An Insight into Challenges and Opportunities.

Suicide is a global health concern, with profound social, emotional, and economic repercussions for individuals, families, and communities. Suicidal behaviour among adolescents, encompassing ideation, self-harm, and suicide attempts poses a significant global public health challenge. The cultural, social, and economic factors that contribute to suicide in Pakistan are complex and multifaceted, making it imperative to develop tailored interventions, necessitating collaborative efforts involving researchers, educators, clinicians, practitioners, and policymakers. The purpose of this study is to emphasise the risk factors contributing to adolescent suicidal behaviour and to delve into the strategies and interventions that can help prevent suicide in Pakistan, considering the unique challenges and opportunities within the country. This study highlights the relevance of the WHO (2023) Thinking Healthy Programme and stress management measures tailored to the needs of low- and middle-income nations like Pakistan. These resources empower healthcare workers to enhance mental health screening and identification of adolescents within their communities. In conclusion, dispelling the myths, reducing the societal stigma associated with mental health, and enhancing the accessibility of mental health services is an imperative mission that demands concerted efforts from all sectors of the society. Key Words: Suicide, Adolescent, Mental health, WHO (2023) Thinking Healthy Programme.

Interpersonal communication approach in addressing TB stigma in Bandung City

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) patients face medical challenges and stigmatization from their surroundings. The Terjang Foundation is actively working to combat societal stigma towards TB patients. Purpose: This research analyzes the Terjang Foundation’s interpersonal communication approach to combating stigma towards TB patients. By understanding and assessing the communication methods employed by the foundation, the study aims to contribute to developing effective strategies for reducing the negative stigma associated with TB. Methods: This research utilizes a qualitative research method with a case study approach. In-depth interviews, field observations, and literature reviews are conducted to gather relevant data and insights. Results: The results of this study indicate that the Terjang Foundation employs five positive attitudes in their interpersonal communication approach to combat stigma towards TB patients: openness, empathy, positivity, equality, and supportiveness. These attitudes contribute to fostering an environment that challenges the negative stigma associated with TB. Continuous and frequent communication is crucial in combating stigma, promoting understanding and empathy, and disseminating accurate information. Empathy and equality emerge as prominent positive attitudes consistently demonstrated in communication. Conclusion: The study concludes that maintaining an ongoing and frequent communication process is essential for combating stigma in interpersonal communication efforts. Implications: The research findings have both practical and theoretical implications. Practically, the study emphasizes the importance of adopting positive attitudes, such as empathy and equality, in interpersonal communication strategies to reduce stigma towards TB patients. These insights can guide organizations, healthcare providers, and policymakers in developing effective communication campaigns and interventions to combat stigma related to TB and other diseases.

Body Image Concern, Sexual Esteem and Marital Satisfaction in Young Married Adults

This correlational research aims to study body image concerns, sexual esteem and marital satisfaction in young married adults. The sample consist of N = 163 young married adults from Lahore, Pakistan. The measures included Body Image Concern Scale (He et al., 2017), Sexual Esteem Scale (Snell & Papini, 1989) and ENRICH Marital Satisfaction Scale (Fowers & Olson, 1993) in addition to demographic information sheet. The findings revealed that body image concerns negatively (-0.34, p < .001) while sexual esteem positively (0.42, p < .001) relates to marital satisfaction. Significant gender differences revealed that men tend to have better sexual esteem (t = 2.90, df = 161, p <0.01) and marital satisfaction (t = 2.01, df = 161, p <0.05) than women. Increase in total family income, marital satisfaction tends to increase. The mediation analysis revealed that sexual esteem serves as a mediator between concerns about body image and marital satisfaction. The study implies potential development of therapeutic interventions for enhancing marriage satisfaction and addressing societal stigmatization of body ideals for improved marital quality.

Empowering Women by Strengthening the Economic Sector and Digital Marketing Through a Women's School in Tambakmenjangan Village

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on various sectors, including tourism, trade and industry, particularly impacting micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Indonesia. According to Adistianingsih and Panjaitan (2022), Indonesia ranks 109th out of 144 countries in terms of women's participation in the economy and entrepreneurial opportunities. This reflects the limited opportunities for women in the world of work and entrepreneurship in Indonesia. Patriarchal culture and negative stigma surrounding the role of women in rural areas exacerbate this problem. This program aims to overcome the low economic participation of women in Tambakmenjangan Village, Lamongan Regency. The problem is the low level of women's empowerment, which has an impact on low levels of education, societal stigma and early marriage. This program utilizes non-formal education and skills training programs for women which are carried out in collaboration with the Lamongan Islamic University student organization. The activity design includes a six-month culinary, fashion and make-up training program for women in Tambakmenjangan Village. The findings show that this program has succeeded in empowering women by increasing their skills and knowledge in various fields. The program also involves partnerships with government agencies, local businesses, and educational institutions. Monitoring and evaluation were carried out to ensure program effectiveness, and workshops were held to disseminate and publicize the results. The implications of this research are very significant because they contribute to the empowerment of women in rural areas and address the gender gap in economic participation.

Studi Kasus: Konsep Dasar Pendidikan Inklusi pada Jenjang PAUD di Kota Banjarmasin, Kalimantan Selatan

The background of this study is the implementation of inclusive education in early childhood education (PAUD) in Banjarmasin, Indonesia. This research aims to assess the understanding and commitment of educators and parents towards inclusive education, as well as the strategies and challenges faced in accommodating various learning needs. The methodology used is a qualitative case study approach involving in-depth interviews with educators, parents and children with special needs, as well as participant observation in 3 inclusive PAUDs in Banjarmasin. The research results show that there is a strong commitment and understanding of the principles of inclusive education among educators and parents in Banjarmasin. Key findings include acceptance of children with diverse abilities and backgrounds, adapting curricula to meet individual needs, and developing collaboration between educators, parents, and the community. However, challenges such as lack of human resources, infrastructure, and societal stigma towards children with special needs have been identified. The implications show the need for increased budget allocations, comprehensive training for educators, infrastructure improvements, and community education to support inclusive education.

Age-related experiences of diverse older women living with HIV: A scoping review protocol informed by intersectionality.

Older women living with HIV often go unnoticed due to societal biases and stigmas. Despite a rise in cases among older women, there is limited research on the psychosocial factors impacting their experiences. Aging complexities compounded by HIV and menopause affect these women's health, while factors like mental health impact, changing support networks, and ageism with HIV stigma influence their well-being. Existing studies mostly compare older HIV-positive individuals without considering gender and intersectional identities, limiting understanding of their unique experiences. The scarcity of research addressing age-related differences from diverse perspectives delays the development of tailored treatments and interventions. The study aims to comprehensively explore the age-related experiences of older women with HIV through three sub-questions that address (1) Key experiences, medical and social challenges, and strengths; (2) Impact of intersectional identities on their experiences; and (3) Gaps and limitations in current research. Utilizing a scoping review approach, the study seeks to map existing literature, employing a theoretical framework rooted in Sex- and Gender-Based Analysis Plus (SGBA+). Articles focusing on the age-related experiences of older women living with HIV aged 50 and above will be included. The study selection process will involve two independent reviewers screening articles based on pre-established inclusion criteria. Data extraction and synthesis will follow, analyzing the influence of sex, gender, and other identities on experiences. The study's comprehensive approach aims to bridge gaps in understanding older women's HIV experiences, emphasizing intersectionality. While limited to English-language peer-reviewed articles, this review seeks to offer valuable insights for healthcare, policy, and research, potentially fostering positive change in the lives of diverse older women living with HIV.

Building and Maintaining an Engineering Identity: How Engineering Students Navigate Community College Stigma Prior to Transfer

ABSTRACT This research brief outlines a phenomenological study which sought to understand how community college students made sense of their engineering identity as well as explore how outsider perceptions of community college attendance and transfer influenced their identities. The study used the Community College Stigmatization Model (CCSM) and elements of engineering identity theory to understand student experiences. Students shared how societal stigma and interactions with faculty, staff, and students at the high school and university levels complicated their ability to build strong engineering identities. However, they also described resistance against stigmatization and marginalization as community college engineering students and took actions to enhance their engineering identities. This study highlights the persistent nature of stigma and the need to create better partnerships and support systems as well as foster stigma resistance among community college engineering students.

Caregiver Narratives of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Exploring Symptom Recognition, Diagnosis, and Interventions.

The diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) poses myriad challenges for families, yet there is a scarcity of research focusing on their journey from recognizing initial anomalies to implementing interventions. This qualitative study examines how caregivers in Sylhet, Bangladesh, perceive and manage ASD in their children, including early symptom identification, diagnostic processes, and intervention strategies. Data for this study were collected through semi-structured interviews, case studies, and observations involving 22 caregivers of children with ASD. Participants were chosen using purposive-convenience sampling, and data collection continued until interpretive saturation was achieved. The study findings unveil nuanced caregiver perceptions of ASD causation, influenced by sociocultural factors, religious beliefs, and genetic predispositions. These determinants wield significant influence over treatment modalities and the child's developmental trajectory. Importantly, the prevalence of supernatural beliefs and myths often surpasses biomedical explanations, highlighting gaps in awareness, educational outreach, and understanding of ASD. Nevertheless, religious beliefs and rituals concurrently serve as adaptive coping mechanisms, offering solace amidst uncertainty. Furthermore, a striking observation emerges: despite parents frequently identifying anomalies in their children within a 24-month, a substantial delay of 3 to 5 years persists between initial symptom recognition and formal diagnosis. This delay predominantly stems from caregiver hesitancy driven by societal stigmatization, familial dismissal attitudes, and limited diagnostic and specialized services. This study highlights the challenging diagnostic journey and caregiving for children with ASD in Bangladesh, stressing the need for systemic improvements in services, awareness, and research to enhance the well-being of individuals with ASD.

Exploring the Lived Experiences and Coping Mechanisms of Unmarried Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in Pakistan

The current research aimed to demonstrate the lived experiences and coping mechanisms of unmarried women suffering from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in Pakistan, given that it is the most prevalent endocrine disorder. Furthermore, the study also focused on how these women cope with PCOS, based on a phenomenological qualitative research design. The study utilized a qualitative research design comprising in-depth interviews analyzed through thematic analysis to understand the lived experiences of women with PCOS. Moreover, the perceptions regarding the cultural norms, societal expectations, as well as health information sources were also examined. The results revealed a multifaceted web of stigma, misinformation, and desire to be perceived positively by family and community. Additionally, the study outlined the strategies employed by these women to cope with excessive hair growth anxiety, ranging from medications, diet, and exercises, to using natural remedies. It also underscored the importance of familial support including the access to authentic information as it is helpful for these women to optimally self-manage their emotional well-being. The current study provided a better understanding pertaining to specific healthcare issues faced by unmarried women with PCOS in Pakistan. Moreover, it also enhanced the advocacy for the culturally appropriate and societal stigma targeted interventions to encourage the provision of relevant healthcare services. Furthermore, this study may contribute to new policy adjustments and improvements of healthcare services to enhance the PCOS vulnerable members’ conditions through raising awareness.

Exploring the Connection Between Underdiagnosed Mental Health Issues and Societal Stigma in the UAE

This study examines the impact of cultural, social, and religious factors on underdiagnosed mental health concerns in the United Arab Emirates. A historical synopsis shows how cultural ideas have shaped conceptions of mental health from prehistoric times to the present. Along with diseases like eating disorders, disruptive behavior disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, schizophrenia, and neurodevelopmental disorders, the role that stigma plays in impeding diagnosis and treatment is also examined. The study uses research questions to gain insight into ethnic group experiences in the UAE and the impact of stigma, with the goal of eliminating stigma around mental health and enhancing access to care.

Epidemiology of alcohol use disorder in the general population of Togo and Benin: the ALCOTRANS study

IntroductionAccess to data concerning mental health, particularly alcohol use disorders (AUD), in sub-Saharan Africa is very limited. This study aimed to estimate AUD prevalence and identify the associated factors in Togo and Benin.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted between April and May 2022, targeting individuals aged 18 years and above in the Yoto commune of Togo and the Lalo commune of Benin. Subjects were recruited using a multi-stage random sampling technique. AUD diagnoses were made using the MINI adapted to DSM-5 criteria. Our study collected sociodemographic information, data on psychiatric comorbidities, stigmatization, and assessed cravings, using a series of scales. The association between AUD and various factors was analyzed using multivariable logistic regression.ResultsIn Togo, 55 of the 445 people investigated had AUD (12.4%; [95% CI: 9.5-15.7%]). Among them, 39 (70.9%) had severe AUD and the main associated comorbidities were suicidal risk (36.4%), and major depressive disorder (16.4%). Associated factors with AUD were male gender (aOR: 11.3; [95% CI: 4.8–26.7]), a higher Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) score (aOR: 1.2; [95% CI: 1.1–1.3]) and a lower Stigma score measured by the Explanatory Model Interview Catalogue (EMIC) (aOR: 0.9; [95% CI: 0.8–0.9). The stigma scores reflect perceived societal stigma towards individuals with AUD. In Benin, 38 of the 435 people investigated had AUD (8.7%; [95% CI: 6.4–11.7]), and the main associated comorbidities were suicidal risk (18.4%), tobacco use disorder (13.2%) and major depressive episode (16.4%). Associated factors with AUD were male gender (aOR: 6.4; [95% CI: 2.4–17.0]), major depressive disorder (aOR: 21.0; [95% CI: 1.5-289.8]), suicidal risk (aOR: 3.7; [95% CI: 1.2–11.3]), a lower Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB) score (aOR:0.8; [95% CI: 0.8–0.9]) and a lower perceived stigma score (by EMIC )(aOR: 0.9; [95% CI: 0.8–0.9]).ConclusionIn these communes of Togo and Benin, AUD prevalence is notably high. A deeper understanding of the disease and its local determinants, paired with effective prevention campaigns, could mitigate its impact on both countries.

The effect of social activities on the alienation and family resilience of Chinese caregivers for children with autism: a latent class analysis.

Caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in China often experience alienation due to societal stigma. While this alienation detrimentally impacts their mental well-being, family resilience serves as a protective factor. Previous research has predominantly examined the social support derived from social activities but has neglected to delve into the specific patterns of these activities. The primary objective of this study was twofold: firstly, to gain insights into the various social activities engaged in by caregivers of children with autism in China, and secondly, to ascertain the influence of these social activities on alienation and family resilience. Between June and August 2023, a cross-sectional survey was carried out across multiple cities in Jilin Province, aiming to gather data from a total of 205 Chinese caregivers of children with autism. Data collection was conducted through the utilization of a structured questionnaire. The assessment of social activity involved the completion of 12 questionnaires, while alienation was evaluated using the Generalized Alienation Scale (GSAS), and family resilience was gauged through the Chinese version of the Family Resilience Scale (FaRE). The classification of social activities was conducted through latent class analysis (LCA), while the impact of these social activities on alienation and family resilience was examined using linear regression analysis. The findings revealed that social activities can be categorized into five types (Low, Self-Recreation, Communication, Web Surfing, High). Communication social activities were found to reduce family resilience(β=.332, p<0.01), while high social activities were associated with reduced alienation(β=-.349, p<0.05) and increased family resilience(β=.417, p<0.01). Supporting these particular types of social activities has the potential to reduce alienation and bolster family resilience among caregivers for children with autism in China.

Homeless and Hospitalized: A Case Study of Intervention to Support Collaborative Behavior and Safety

ABSTRACT For unhoused patients, hospitalization is often a potentially life-altering event that evokes distress and triggers reactive behaviors that may undermine treatment and safety. Societal stigmatization, isolation, and disempowerment act to marginalize unhoused hospital patients, impacting their autonomy, sense of self-worth, and capacity for social interaction and collaboration. This article examines the ways in which Relational-Cultural Theory (RCT) can be utilized to better understand unhoused patients’ behaviors as influenced by the relational violations and trauma they experience and suggests that relationally and culturally focused interventions are both reparative and necessary. A composite case study is employed to demonstrate the application of RCT to a behavioral and safety crisis and evidence opportunities for meaningful intervention. Implications for enhanced support of unhoused patients in hospitals are discussed, as is the need for continued research on the use of RCT to inform therapeutic intervention in acute care settings.

Unraveling the Spectrum: A Comprehensive Review of Autism Spectrum Disorder in India.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficits in social interaction, communication difficulties, and repetitive behaviors that profoundly impact the lives of affected individuals and their families. This article provides a comprehensive overview of ASD, focusing on screening, diagnosis, and intervention strategies. Early signs of ASD can manifest in infancy, but parents may not recognize them until their child falls behind in meeting social milestones. This delay in recognition is often due to a lack of awareness, societal stigma, and limited knowledge about developmental and behavioral disorders. Globally, ASD prevalence is increasingpotentially due to broader diagnostic criteria, increased awareness, and improved screening practices. Screening for ASD is crucial for early identification and intervention. Various tools are available such as the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHATs), Trivandrum Autism Behavioral Checklist (TABC), and the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ). Diagnosing ASD involves using established criteria such as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), and specific diagnostic tools like the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and the Indian Scale for the Assessment of Autism (ISAA). Interventions for ASD should be multidisciplinary, involving professionals such as developmental pediatricians, psychologists, psychiatrists, special educators, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, speech therapists, and social workers. Applied behavior analysis (ABA), naturalistic developmental behavioral interventions (NDBIs), and parent-mediated treatment are among the evidence-based approaches. Additionally, speech-language therapy, motor therapy, and sensory integration therapy play vital roles in addressing the diverse needs of individuals with ASD. Medical interventions should be used alongside behavioral and environmental strategies. Early screening, accurate diagnosis, and tailored interventions are essential for improving the lives of individuals with ASD. A multidisciplinary approach and increased awareness are crucial in addressing the growing prevalence of ASD worldwide.

Unidimensional versus multidimensional: A bifactor factor structure of the Self-Stigma Scale-Short (SSS-S) among U.S. adults with psychiatric disabilities.

This study aimed to examine the psychometric properties of the English version of the Self-Stigma Scale-Short (SSS-S), a nine-item self-report self-stigma measurement, among U.S. adults with psychiatric disabilities. We obtained reliability and validity evidence from a sample of 275 adults with psychiatric disabilities. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA; n = 139) yielded a two-factor solution that accounts for 64.97% of the variance. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA; n = 136) was conducted to compare alternative solutions, including a single-factor model, a two-correlated-factor model, a three-correlated-factor model, and a bifactorial model. The CFA results supported the bifactor S·I - 1 model as a superior latent factor structure for the SSS-S. The coefficient ω of the SSS-S was .94, indicating excellent internal reliability. Concurrent validity of the SSS-S was supported by significant positive correlations with societal stigma and psychiatric symptom severity, and negative correlations with psychiatric disability acceptance, general self-efficacy, and hope. The overall findings concluded that the English version of the SSS-S demonstrated reliable and valid scores and a primarily unidimensional structure of self-stigma among U.S. adults with psychiatric disabilities. Given the adverse impact of self-stigma and its relationships with recovery-related constructs shown in this study, the routine use of the SSS-S is recommended in psychiatric rehabilitation settings. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Cultural Research on Drug Users in Indonesia

This study aims to examine the construction of rehabilitation for drug users in Indonesia from various aspects using a literature review approach. The aspects discussed include rehabilitation policies, the role of family and community, societal stigma, as well as cultural perspectives such as identity, consumer culture, and regulatory frameworks. Additionally, this research employs Jurgen Habermas's theory of Communicative Power as its theoretical foundation. The method used is a literature review by examining various previous studies relevant to the topic of drug user rehabilitation. The results indicate that rehabilitation is constructed from policy aspects that still need improvement, the importance of family support, the need to eliminate societal stigma, the diverse identities of drug users, consumer culture related to residence and occupation, and regulatory frameworks encompassing societal regulations and values. The theory of Communicative Power highlights the importance of public space as a deliberative arena in the rehabilitation process involving drug users, families, communities, and other stakeholders. This research provides a comprehensive overview of the construction of drug user rehabilitation in Indonesia from various perspectives and aspects that need attention to enhance the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs.

Attitudes to long-term care in India: A secondary, mixed methods analysis.

In India, globalisation is purported to have contributed to shifting family structures and changing attitudes to long-term care (LTC) facility use. We investigated the attitudes to and usage frequency of LTC in India. We conducted secondary analyses of: (a) The Moving Pictures India Project qualitative interviews with 19 carers for people with dementia and 25 professionals, collected in 2022, exploring attitudes to LTC; and (b) The Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI) 2017-2018, cross-sectional survey of a randomised probability sample of Indian adults aged 45+ living in private households. We identified three themes from qualitative data: (1) LTC as a last resort, describes how LTC could be acceptable if care at home was "impossible" due to the person's medical condition or unavailability of the family carer, for example, if family members lived overseas or interstate. (2) Social expectations of care at home from family members and paid carers and; (3) Limited availability of LTC facilities in India, especially in rural localities, and the financial barriers to their use. Of 73,396 LASI participants, 40 were considering moving to LTC; 18,281 had a parent alive, of whom 9 reported that their father, and 16 that their mother, lived in LTC. LTC use was rare. While a third of participants with a living parent lived in urban areas, 14/24 of those with a parent in LTC lived in an urban area, supporting our qualitative findings that LTC is mainly accessed in urban areas. Preference for intergenerational community care combined with limited availability and societal stigma contribute to low rates of LTC use among Indian families. Future social policies should consider how to plan for greater equity in strengthening care at home and in the community, and bolstering respite and LTC services as a last resort.

An Examination of School-Based Psychological Counseling Services for Improving Mental Health

Psychological counseling, as a form of school-based mental health services, plays a crucial role in supporting the well-being of students. However, there is limited knowledge about the state of school counseling programs in Vietnam. The objective of this study, which used a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods, was to examine the current practices, utilization rates, effectiveness, and obstacles faced in providing psychological counseling in Vietnamese schools. The research included a survey of 150 students and interviews conducted with 10 school counselors and administrators from five high schools in Ho Chi Minh City. The findings revealed that despite a high demand for counseling services among students, the utilization rates were alarmingly low. Several significant barriers were identified, including a shortage of school counselors, inadequate training for counselors, societal stigma associated with mental health issues, lack of private spaces for counseling sessions, and the absence of national standards for school-based services. The results emphasize the disparities between the current status of school counseling programs in Vietnam and international standards. Suggestions include the implementation of more extensive professional development for counselors, increasing the number of full-time counselors, establishing national guidelines for mental health services in schools, raising awareness through anti-stigma campaigns, and allocating more funds. Improving psychological counseling services in schools holds the potential to offer essential assistance for the mental health and overall well-being of Vietnamese students.

Intersecting Realities: Body Dysmorphic Disorder and Substance Abuse in Women – A Holistic Treatment Approach

The intersection of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) and substance abuse in women presents a clinical tableau rich with complexity and challenges. This review explores the intricate relationship between BDD—a disorder characterized by an obsessive preoccupation with perceived physical flaws—and substance abuse, where women may turn to drugs or alcohol as a maladaptive coping mechanism to alleviate the distress associated with BDD. A literature-focused methodology was employed in the study. In this context, databases such as PubMed, DergiPark, WoS, and ScienceDirect were utilized to explore the relevant literature. The analysis delves into the unique manifestation of BDD in women, influenced by societal, cultural, and psychological factors that often impose stringent beauty standards and exacerbate body image concerns. Patterns of substance abuse among women are discussed, highlighting the rapid progression from usage to dependency, known as telescoping, and the impact of societal stigma that compounds the struggles of women with addiction. Risk factors for both conditions are examined, with a focus on shared contributors such as trauma, mental health comorbidities, and societal pressures. Current treatment approaches are reviewed, advocating for an integrated model that combines psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and holistic or alternative interventions. The review emphasizes the importance of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for BDD and Medication-Assisted Treatment for substance abuse, as well as the inclusion of mindfulness, meditation, and gender- The conclusion reinforces the imperative of a cohesive treatment strategy, underscoring the need for gender-specific, trauma-informed care that understands and addresses the complex interplay between BDD and substance abuse in women. This comprehensive approach promises more effective support and a hopeful pathway to recovery for women entangled in the web of these co-occurring disorders.