The passion theory of stoicism and how to apply it to enhance students’ mental health experiment at University of Economics Ho Chi Minh city.

Abstract

Mental health is critical during young adulthood as this is a formative time for psychological development. However, in Vietnam, there has traditionally been greater emphasis on physical well-being, neglecting mental health needs. This paper aims to determine whether Stoicism, an ancient school of philosophy, is capable of dealing with such a modern issue as mental health difficulties, followed by an examination of mental health among the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH) students. To conduct the research, the authors use analytical, comparison and synthesis methods to explore Stoicism, the Passion theory in Stoicism and its impact on mental health. Also, the authors applied Passion theory in Stoicism combined with current psychology research to create The Supporting Research Model and The Main Research Model. The result shows that four classes in Passion are qualified to be the factors affecting negative emotional states and Stoicism has the ability to positively affect and enhance the students' negative emotional states. Based on the results, the study makes valuable recommendations offered for the student, family, university, and society to enhance students’ mental health.