Between Trauma and the Sacred

Book info: Between Trauma and the Sacred (Hardcover, 211 pages – Springer, 2018) – Springer, 2018. Language: Eng.

This insightful volume explores the complex interplay between trauma and cultural beliefs in the context of mental health, drawing on the findings from the East Timor Mental Health Study. It presents a unique perspective on the brief yet vivid psychotic episodes that individuals experience, particularly in relation to significant cultural events like the new moon. Readers will learn how these occurrences are often tied to deep-rooted cultural obligations and societal pressures, offering a nuanced understanding of psychosis that transcends traditional Western frameworks. The authors, James Rodger and Zachary Steel, develop a comprehensive multi-level approach to understanding psychotic symptoms, integrating biological, sociocultural, and political dimensions. This edition not only presents quantitative and qualitative research findings but also incorporates ethnographic insights, psychoanalytic theories, and innovative culturally-adaptable interventions. Students and professionals will benefit from the book's interdisciplinary approach, which situates mental health within broader social and cultural contexts, making it a valuable resource for those interested in global mental health issues.