Mandala Art Therapy as an Intervention for Depression, Anxiety, Stress and Resilience among University Students

Abstract

University students often grapple with the transition from adolescence to adulthood, a period filled with various challenges and stressors that can lead to mental health issues, particularly depression and anxiety. The National Mental Health Survey of India (NMHS) in 2015-16 identified a significant prevalence of mood-related disorders affecting 5.8% of Indian adults and anxiety disorders affecting 3.9%. These findings underscore the pressing need to address mental health concerns among the younger population, including university students. To explore potential interventions, a study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of Mandala Art Therapy in alleviating depression, anxiety, stress, and enhancing resilience in this vulnerable group. The term “mandala” is rooted in Sanskrit, an ancient Indian language, where it combines “Manda” (meaning center) and “La” to signify accomplishment, reflecting the therapeutic approach’s focus on inner balance and well-being. The study employed a rigorous methodology, obtaining ethical clearance from the Institutional Ethical Committee and selecting 30 participants who met specific inclusion criteria. These participants were then given a comprehensive explanation of the study’s purpose and procedures, followed by instructions regarding the intervention protocol. Over the course of four weeks, participants engaged in eight sessions of Mandala Art Therapy, with a frequency of two sessions per week. The study measured four main variables, namely depression, anxiety, stress, and resilience, both before and after the intervention. The results of this study demonstrated a significant positive impact of Mandala Art Therapy on the mental well-being of university students. Furthermore, individual assessments of depression, anxiety, and stress, as well as their collective effect, exhibited statistically significant improvements from pre- to post-intervention. In conclusion, this research underscores the potential of Mandala Art Therapy as an effective tool in reducing depression, anxiety, and stress, while simultaneously enhancing resilience among university students. The findings provide valuable insights into the positive impact of this ancient therapeutic approach, offering a promising avenue for addressing the mental health issues that often accompany the significant life changes and expectations faced by young adults pursuing higher education.