The Upaniṣads and modern mental health: A scientific and metacognitive exploration of consciousness, selfhood, emotional regulation, and psychological well-being
BN Raveesh
International Journal of Advanced Academic Studies November 1, 2026 DOI: 10.33545/27068919.2026.v8.i11a.89861 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Conceptual narrative review Pilot study Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key findings | Proposes that the Upaniṣads contain sophisticated reflections on consciousness, self, desire, attention, and suffering relevant to mental health, and offers an integrative five-dimension framework linking these ideas to constructs such as metacognition, decentering, and psychological flexibility. Argues that the texts may inform culturally sensitive formulation and psychoeducation without replacing evidence-based treatment, while their specific applications remain untested and require empirical study. |
Abstract
The Upaniṣads contain sophisticated reflections on consciousness, the self, desire, attention and suffering that are highly relevant to contemporary mental health. This conceptual narrative review examines eleven principal Upaniṣads (Bṛhadāraṇyaka, Chāndogya, Kaṭha, Taittirīya, Māṇḍūkya, Īśā, Muṇḍaka, Kena, Praśna, Aitareya and Śvetāśvatara) in the light of psychological and psychiatric constructs, including metacognition, decentering, emotional regulation, psychological flexibility, interoception and mindfulness. The comparisons are interpretive and hypothesis-generating, and philosophical claims are kept separate from empirically testable ones. This paper proposes an integrative five-dimension framework, discusses clinical implications and safeguards, and suggests a pilot study design. The Upaniṣads may contribute to culturally informed formulation and psychoeducation without displacing evidence-based treatment; their specific applications require empirical testing.