Efficacy of a Sattva-Enhancement Intervention on Interpersonal and Executive Functioning: A Randomized Controlled Trial among Adults with Common Mental Disorders

The primary purpose of this study is to conduct a Sattva-Enhancement Intervention on patients with Depression (Mild-Mod) and Anxiety diagnoses to evaluate its impact on Interpersonal Functioning. The study also seeks to examine the effect of this intervention on Executive Functioning, Psychological Distress and Well- Being. This study is a randomized controlled trial (RCT) where one group will receive the Sattva-Enhancement Intervention, which consists of 12 individual sessions spread over 8 weeks. The other group will receive Treatment as Usual (TAU), which includes psychoeducation and standard clinical care such as information on illness management, healthy routines, and stress reduction. Caregivers will also be approached to provide information regarding patient’s condition.

The Sattva-Enhancement Intervention is a structured psychological program delivered in a religiously neutral, culturally sensitive manner. It focuses on self-discovery and inner experiences, and strengthens positive inner qualities that support well-being. Sessions integrate reflective discussion, guided meditation, and simple home-based practices. The intervention is informed by classical Indian psychological and yogic frameworks, including concepts drawn from the Yoga Vasishta, Bhagavad Gita, and Patanjali Yoga Sutra. The program includes self-care and inner discipline practices aligned with Niyama, and promotes ethical and adaptive behavioural orientations aligned with Yama. It also emphasizes cultivating the four relational attitudes known as Chaturbhavana, namely maitri (friendliness), karuna (compassion), mudita (sympathetic joy), and upeksha (equanimity), to foster healthier social interactions, emotional balance, improved cognitive control, and flexible responding in interpersonal situations.

This study advances applied Indian psychology, addressing gaps in cultural congruence and holistic treatment. The intervention simultaneously targets interpersonal and executive functioning, symptom reduction, and overall psychological recovery, contributing to enhanced quality of life. The study will validate the therapeutic relevance of certain interconnected indigenous constructs (Sattva, Yama-Niyama, Chaturbhavana), utilizing both standardized Western psychometric instruments and indigenous tools, enhancing their conceptual coherence and applicability. Outcomes from this study will significantly advance culturally congruent interventions within India’s mental health system, providing a validated foundation for scalable, accessible treatments suitable for diverse populations experiencing Depression and Anxiety.