[(Self)-compassion as an antidote for psychopathology]

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Mental Health Research

Background:

• Psychopathology prevalence remains high in prosperous nations despite advancements in treatment and prevention.
• Societal focus on complete wellbeing may inadvertently reduce resilience to life's inevitable setbacks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential of self-compassion, an Eastern concept, in mitigating psychopathology.
• To investigate the role of self-compassion in fostering mental resilience.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature review was conducted.
• Expert interviews were performed to gather insights.

Main Results:

• Defining health as complete wellbeing can diminish resilience, increasing stress and psychopathology risk.
• Self-compassion involves leniency during setbacks, effectively regulating stress.
• (Self)-compassion enhances resilience and shows potential in decreasing psychopathology.

Conclusions:

• Resilience receives insufficient attention in prosperous countries.
• Self-compassion can bolster mental resilience and reduce psychopathology prevalence.
• The concept of self-compassion warrants integration into psychiatric diagnostics and treatment strategies.