Understanding the nature and dynamics of self-affirmation in non-depressed and subclinically depressed Indian adults: a thematic analysis

This study highlights the significant differences in self-affirmation processes between subclinically depressed and healthy adults. This finding supports the theoretical understanding that subclinical depression is associated with maladaptive cognitive patterns and a lack of self-resources. These findings underscore the importance of cognitive-behavioural frameworks that emphasize the role of positive self-affirmation and self-resources in mental health and highlight the need for targeted interventions that can strengthen these domains in subclinically depressed individuals. Therapeutic interventions for subclinical depression should focus on improving self-affirmation practices, increasing awareness of self-resources, and attenuating negative cognitive tendencies. Practitioners should consider integrating strategies that promote positive cognitions and proactive threat management. Additionally, preventative mental health programs could benefit from incorporating modules that strengthen self-affirmation and self-resource awareness of one's resources to build resilience in the general population, particularly young adults.