The effect of reflective image meditation on depressive affect in middle-aged men: A single-case study
Journal of Meditation based Psychological Counseling August 31, 2025 Yuri Jang
A middle-aged man with depressive affect described feeling 'trapped' and 'like he was wearing a straitjacket,' with ruminative thoughts and suppressed emotions that manifested as psychosomatic symptoms. His depression stemmed from childhood loneliness and abandonment anxiety. After an 8-session Reflective Image Meditation (RIM) counseling program, his BDI score dropped from 20 (severe depression) to 6 (normal range). Qualitative improvements included overcoming helplessness, recognizing his right to be protected, and practicing daily meditation. The case suggests RIM may help middle-aged men with depressive affect by enabling them to safely confront repressed emotions and develop self-empathy.