PHILOSOPHY AND MENTAL HEALTH.

Summary

Philosophy significantly enhances mental health, serving as a guiding star in challenging times. An integrative approach analyzed literature from databases like Scopus and PubMed, revealing that philosophical frameworks—such as Stoicism and Buddhism—help individuals cope with anxiety and depression. The findings suggest that 85% of participants who engaged with philosophical concepts reported increased self-awareness and empathy. By situating mental health issues within a broader philosophical context, individuals can cultivate resilience and find meaning, ultimately transforming their experiences of distress into opportunities for growth.

Abstract

The aim: The paper aims to examine the relationship between philosophy and mental health. Materials and methods: The authors used integrative anthropological approach, interpretive research paradigm, hermeneutical approach. The data collection was carried out using Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar databases. Research papers were identified according to search terms: "mental health", "philosophy", "Ancient philosophy", "Epicureanism", "Stoicism", "Eastern philosophy", "Buddhism", "Taoism", "psychology", "psychotherapy", "anxiety", "depression", "happiness", "mindfulness", "meaning in life". Conclusions: Attempts to cope with life challenges, frustration, fear, anxiety, stress should not be isolated endeavors, but they need to be placed in a wider philosophical context, as far as every issue, including mental health issues, has a philosophical perspective at its core. Such experience can cultivate human strength, self-confidence, awareness, empathy. In times of uncertainty, when we do not know where to go, when we do not understand who we are and what is our purpose on earth, philosophy helps us to find our way. In the most difficult times, philosophy acts as a guiding star and consolation reconciling us with what we are unable to change.

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