Emotional Intelligence Based Treatment in Mental Illness: A prospective Analysis

Abstract

Emotions seize powerful status in mental functioning. When we are
besieged by stress, the emotional parts of our brain supersede the
rational part. Emotional balance and adjustment in adversities could
be attained by intelligent use of emotions. A series of studies in the last
two decades has established the role of emotional intelligence (EI) as
vital in mental health. The detrimental impact of high alexithymia (a
state of deficiency in understanding, processing, or describing
emotions) or low emotional intelligence on physical illness, depression,
low self esteem, suicidal ideation, poor impulse control, anxiety
disorders, personality disorders, and increased alcohol and drug use
has been supported by number of studies. These findings are not
surprising as there is overlap between some of the components of
emotional intelligence and prerequisites of mental health. Researchers
have established EI as a novel explanatory construct in mental illness
and suggest that training EI may play preventive role in the onset of
mental illnesses. Studies in the area of emotional intelligence and
mental health have consequences for maintaining and promoting
individual’s mental health. Literature establishes a vista that
psychotherapy based on developing EI skills along with other
therapeutic measures could be proved effective in certain mental
illnesses.