MINDFULNESS-BASED INTERVENTIONS FOR REDUCING STRESS AND ENHANCING PSYCHOLOGICAL RESILIENCE: A STUDY IN THE PAKISTANI CONTEXT
Hamza Raza
Department of Clinical Psychology, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
Keywords: Mindfulness-Based Interventions (MBIs), Stress Reduction, Psychological Resilience, Mental Health in Pakistan
Abstract
Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have gained considerable attention as effective tools for managing stress and enhancing psychological resilience. By cultivating mindfulness—defined as the practice of paying focused, non-judgmental attention to the present moment—individuals can increase self-awareness, improve emotional regulation, and reduce psychological distress. This article explores the efficacy of MBIs in reducing stress and enhancing psychological resilience, particularly in the context of Pakistan, where stress-related mental health issues are prevalent, but mindfulness practices remain relatively underutilized. Through a combination of literature review and original research, the article evaluates the impact of MBIs on stress reduction and resilience, both in clinical and non-clinical populations. It also discusses the cultural adaptation of mindfulness practices to Pakistani society, considering religious and social factors. The findings suggest that MBIs hold significant potential for improving mental health outcomes in Pakistan, offering a promising approach for addressing the growing mental health crisis.