Shamanic concepts and treatment of mental illness in Pakistan

A study was conducted to learn about shamanic concepts and treatment of mental illness. For this purpose 100 shamans were selected by lottery method and a questionnaire was administered supplemented by interview to determine their educational and training background, concepts about mental illness, and methods of diagnosis and treatment. Causes commonly attributed were Jinn (50%), evil influence (20%), evil eye, magic and witchcraft (10%), and medical reasons (10%). Treatment offered included amulets, holy water, rituals, recitation, talisman, etc. Study findings highlight the importance of understanding cultural issues, placebo effects of the treatment regime and knowledge of folk beliefs.