This month, we consider the peace, love, and joy honored during the world’s many December holiday celebrations. This issue also encourages us to take stock of where we are as human beings, physically, intellectually, and morally, and to take whatever steps are possible to rise to the next level.

Sometimes that’s going outside and getting some exercise. Brian Barbeito walks by a lake and considers the joy of simple living and natural beauty.

Mrinal Kanti Ghosh recollects a dreamy summer night. Olga Levadnaya captures the solemn stillness of midday heat. Christina Chin renders up the cold silence and calm of winter.

Aura Echeverri Uribe evokes the monumental destruction of an avalanche. Jack Galmitz speaks to how we manage and control wildness, in our neighborhoods and our bodies, and how it can reassert itself. Carrie Farrar speaks to the joy and wonder of visiting France to see the Mer de Glace glacier. Mahbub Alam speaks to a solid connection between humanity and nature, like a tree standing firm in the changing winds.

Tasneem Hossain draws on the owl as an extended metaphor for wisdom and protection. Roodly Laurore reflects on the tender and colorful beauty and diversity of nature in a piece which he intends to bring comfort in a violent and turbulent world. Maja Milojkovic encourages us to imagine a new world of gentleness and peace towards our earth and each other.

Elizabetta Bonaparte’s poetry takes a short, but strong and cogent, stand against war. Valentina Yordanova, in poetry translated by Yoana Konstantinova, laments the mindless destruction war brings to ordinary lives. Eva Petropoulou Lianou calls for genuine humanity in a world at war.

Samar Aldeek tenderly celebrates peace in her bilingual poetry. Dr. Perwaiz Shaharyar draws on the style of courtly romance to honor the legacy of Mexican poet, peace activist, and literary cultural worker Dr. Jeannette Tiburcio. Fernando Jose Martinez Alderete joins in the tribute to Dr. Tiburcio and also speaks of the need for peace and mutual respect.

Paul Durand warns us of dangerous currents, both in the ocean and in American politics. Bill Tope’s poem criticizes human rights abuses committed in the name of immigration enforcement. Duane Herrmann speaks to the spiritual unity of all the world’s people under Ba’hai teachings and how that serves as an antidote to racism and anti-immigrant sentiment.

Travel gives us firsthand experience with different cultures and helps us understand each other. Türkan Ergör illustrates the dislocation of travel through clever and poetic alteration of word and line breaks. Lakshmi Kant Mukul captures the exhilaration and elevated beauty of plane flight. Abdumuminova Risolabonu Nizamovna discusses how travel helps people learn practical skills, including pragmatic communication in multiple languages.

Learning foreign languages, and mastering one’s native language, helps us understand each other, whether we travel in person or through imagination and books. Shakhnoza Pulatova Makhmudjanovna offers strategies for mastering the Arabic language. Muhammadjonova O’giloy Bunyodbekov qizi offers up suggestions for learning Turkish that would be helpful for any foreign language. Abduhalilova Sevdora Xayrulla qizi highlights grammar rules surrounding modal verbs in the Uzbek language. Allaberdiyeva Farangiz outlines ways for students learning English as a foreign language to gain writing proficiency.

Xudoyberdiyeva Jasmina analyzes the linguistic phenomenon of “chatspeak” and ‘text-speak” on the Uzbek language in a piece that’s more intrigued than negative. Dinora Sodiqova discusses the importance of professional communication for aspiring young Uzbek leaders.

People can also travel through time by reading older works and studying history. Petros Kyriakou Veloudas reflects on the joy and the weight of being part of a creative heritage, even when one does not know the names of each and every ancestor. Poet Eva Petropoulou Lianou interviews poet Muhammad Shamsul Huq Babu about his literary legacy and dream of building a large book museum.

Dunia Pulungeanu highlights the lifetime intellectual and literary accomplishments of Dr. Edwin Antonio Gaona Salinas. Choriyeva Go’zal Gayratjon qizi explores the resurgence of academic and cultural interest in foundational works of Uzbek literature. Xudoyberdiyeva Mohiniso reflects on the historical significance of the Mud Battle, an early military defeat for Central Asian medieval historical figure Amir Temur.

Farzona Hoshimova celebrates the pride and beauty of the Uzbek culture. Matnazarova Munisa encourages young and old Uzbeks to remember and preserve their traditional culture. Bobonova Zulfiya sings of the pride, freedom, and beauty of her native Uzbekistan. David Woodward evokes a quest for truth through reading Krishnamurti, ultimately reconnecting himself with his family. Rahmonkulova Gulsevar Samidovna considers the cultural values implicit within Uzbek folk legends.

Muhammadjonova Ogiloy Bunyodbekovna reviews Abdulloh Abdulmutiy Huda Said Bahul’s book Qu’logim senda, qizim, which provides Islamic faith-based guidance for young girls, narrated by a loving father. Ruzimbayeva Quvonchoy also urges Uzbeks to hold onto their traditional values, including love, bravery, and respect for women.

Maja Milojkovic translates Eva Petropoulou Lianou’s tribute to hard-working women around the world from English into Serbian. Mashhura Ochilova highlights the historical respect for women in Uzbek culture and what modern Uzbek women have achieved. Jaloldinova Gulzirahon Otabek Kizi highlights women’s increasing participation in Uzbekistan’s public life.

Orifjonova Nozima Azizbek considers the prospects for preserving the Uzbek language in a time of economic and cultural globalization. Rahmonqulova Gulsevar Samid qizi analyzes the crucial father-son relationship at the heart of the Uzbek folk epic tale “Alpomish” and its centrality to Uzbek family-oriented culture. Rahimberdiyev Ozodbek outlines key elements of Uzbekistan’s heroic tales.

Rashidova Shoshanam explores the long shadows Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex has cast over human literature and psychology. Christopher Bernard reviews Cal Performances’ recent dramatization of Chicago’s Manual Cinema’s The Fourth Witch, about the after-effects of Macbeth’s violence on his victims. Paul Murgatroyd draws on Greek tragedy to poke morbid fun at humans: inwardly messy and selfish, even when outwardly clean. J.J. Campbell provides his signature dark view of human nature, full of sardonic, blunt, emotionally transparent blue-collar surrealism. John Grey picks apart human emotions in his vignettes, attempting to understand why we act as we do.

Dr. Jernail Singh describes how Dr. K.B. Razdan diagnoses some emotional and psychological ills of modern life in his book Gather Ye Rosebuds. Sean Meggeson’s visual poetry speaks to what we gain and lose as modern society progresses. J.K. Durick waxes poetic about times when it seemed that matters were more easily understood and categorized.

Abdulhafiz Iduoze’s epic poem, layered with traditional and modern references from Benin’s culture, serves as a ritual chant and prophetic warning about colonialism and corrupt power structures. It situates recent dynamics within epic time, reminding readers that current matters are not destined to last forever.

Shikdar Mohammed Kibriah affirms the reality of his personal experience amidst the complex claims of philosophical schools. Aisha Al-Maharabi speaks with the voice of one who asserts his claim to existence, writ large on the natural and human worlds. Strider Marcus Jones speaks to reclaiming and holding onto our interior life, emotions, and connection to nature in a world of mass media and technological disruption and deception.

Many other creators explore our internal lives, what we can learn from ourselves and each other and how we can grow as human beings. Allison Grayhurst speaks to her creative and personal journey: learning to function and create through loss, to integrate pain and struggle into her process. Alan Catlin’s fanciful “anxiety dreams” play with our modern insecurities about navigating daily life. Also experiencing anxiety, Mirta Liliana Ramirez’ poetic speaker takes a bit more time before she’s ready to venture out in the world.

Alimardonova Gulsevar Sirojiddinovna explores the balance between personal dreams and duty to society in Somerset Maugham and Abdulla Qodiriy’s writing.

Rus Khomutoff’s latest poetry collection Kaos Karma, reviewed by Cristina Deptula, flows through various words and ideas, pulling us along on the wings of a slow dream. Stykes Wildee’s latest poem seems at once dreamlike and ordinary and conversational, casual thoughts within the subconscious. Mesfakus Salahin’s poetry is ghostlike, contemplative, detached as he contemplates love and death. John Doyle’s poetry harks from a variety of inspirations: everything from insects to gas stations to trains and the countryside. Arjun Razdan’s quick fictional sketch compares young women he sees to elegant fine wine.

Annah Atane’s poetry elegantly traces the outlines of grief and sorrow. Abdulsamad Idris also explores tragedy and loss through a more frank and visceral voice. Graciela Noemi Villaverde finds herself lashed by the storms of loneliness and sorrow. Hanaan Abdelkader Ashour approaches loss with tenderness, offering a kind and reverent note of remembrance for departed loved ones. Marianne Jo Alves Zullas speaks openly of her mourning for her departed mother, everywhere and nowhere at once. Mykyta Ryzhykh’s poem captures the emotional emptiness of a relationship where one person loves intensely, and the other remains distant, consumed by their own habits. Marjona Eshmatova outlines various types of family system dysfunction and how to address them psychologically. Taylor Dibbert points to the ways even well-meaning people can misunderstand each other. Dilobar Maxmarejabova warns us how a person’s heart can become colder and more jaded over time.

Mohamed Rahal speaks of striving for authenticity in one’s faith and in love. Narzulloyeva Munisa Bakhromovna encourages people not to compare themselves negatively with others’ projected lives on social media. Raximberdiyeva Moxinabonu outlines the pressing mental health concern of smartphone addiction and the need to balance our phones with the real world. Moldiyeva Bahodirovna speaks to the way digital technologies have permeated our lives and how to have the Metaverse complement, rather than replace, our world. Choriyeva Xurmo urges balance in the use of digital media in preschool education. Orozboyeva Shodiyeva highlights educational social media applications and encourages her peers to use those rather than focusing just on entertainment.

Jacques Fleury reviews Boston’s Huntington Theater’s production of Alison Bechdel’s tale Fun Home, highlighting themes of intergenerational understanding, how children gradually came to make sense of their parents’ worlds. Young poet Avazova Diyora Alisher qizi offers her good wishes to her teacher in a tender poem. Fayzullayeva Shabbona Sirojiddinova shares her appreciation for her wise and caring father.

Priyanka Neogi playfully celebrates innocent, childlike love. Milana Momcilovic evokes an eternal, spiritual love. Dr. Brajesh Kumar Gupta captures an elegant romantic kiss under moonlight. Vorhees describes erotic and tender love with gentle whimsy and echoes of history. Kemal Berk contributes a graceful love poem about the merging of egos and personalities within a relationship.

Ana Elisa Medina describes a love that encourages her to become a better person. Mohan Maharana celebrates the value of small acts of kindness. Abdusaidova Jasmina shares the importance of kindness through a children’s tale involving a mouse. Balachandra Nair highlights the value of virtue by presenting positive character traits as valuable jewels on display.

Sayani Mukherjee pleads for deep, enduring joy that can withstand the world’s problems.

One way many people find joy is through engaging in various forms of creativity and knowledge gathering. Farida Tijjani draws on a wide variety of technical and natural inspirations to explore gender, creativity, and society.

Various contributors speak of advances in different fields. Uzoqova Gulzoda encourages innovative approaches to elementary school education. Nazulloyeva Feruzabonu highlights the value of science and innovation in inspiring society as well as providing material advancements.

Abdujabborova Rayhona points out ways medical and psychological professionals can reduce unhealthy stresses for pregnant people. Durdona Sharifovna Roziboyeva highlights the success of a recent orthodontic treatment for upper airway issues.

Dinora Sodiqova outlines basic principles of modern consumer advertising. Mamarajabova Shahnoza discusses how digital technologies are transforming the field of accounting. Dianne Reeves Angel celebrates the physical and mental artistry of comedian and actor Buster Keaton.

Several pieces remind us that as we advance in our knowledge and our technical skills, we must bring our humanity along with us. Kandy Fontaine raises questions about ethics and oversight concerning how people are treated in American hospitals. Avazbekova Rayyonaxon reminds medical professionals to display professional behavior as well as knowledge.

Finally, Dr. Jernail S. Anand reminds us to occasionally step back from the clatter of daily human interaction to connect with the universe on a deeper level. We wish all of you inspiration and a chance to think, feel, and connect with the world beyond yourselves this holiday season.

PROFESSIONAL CULTURE OF MEDICAL WORKERS AND THE ART OF COMMUNICATION WITH PATIENTS

Annotation

This article provides a scientific analysis of the professional culture of medical workers, the art of communicating with patients, and the requirements of medical ethics and deontology. It also focuses on the importance of proper patient interaction in medical institutions, mechanisms for developing communication skills, empathy culture, trust factors in the doctor–patient relationship, and their interpretation based on international standards. Research results show that a high level of professional culture significantly improves a patient’s psychological state and increases the effectiveness of treatment.

Keywords: professional culture, medical ethics, deontology, patient communication, empathy, trust, communication skills.

Introduction

The development of modern medicine requires medical specialists not only to possess strong professional knowledge and skills but also to demonstrate high levels of culture, behavior, speech literacy, and communication skills when interacting with patients. A patient’s trust in the doctor is one of the most important psychological factors that influences the treatment process. It is difficult to achieve positive results in an environment where the professional culture of medical staff is insufficient.

Today, humanism, professional responsibility, and communication culture occupy an important place in the healthcare system. It is essential that communication between the doctor and the patient be sincere, respectful, and neutral. Therefore, the professional culture of a medical worker is not only a set of ethical norms but also an important indicator of the quality of medical services.

Main Part

1. The concept and essence of professional culture

Professional culture refers to the medical worker’s professional responsibility, adherence to ethical norms, appearance, speech culture, psychological stability, humane attitude toward patients, and communication skills.

The main components of professional culture include:

professional knowledge and competencies;

medical ethics and deontology norms;

social and psychological culture;

communication culture;

personal appearance and hygiene;

respect for the patient’s individuality.

When a doctor demonstrates a high level of professional culture, the patient develops trust, which ultimately increases the effectiveness of treatment.

2. Principles of medical ethics and deontology

Medical ethics is a set of norms that govern the behavior, professional conduct, and communication of medical workers with patients.

Deontology, on the other hand, refers to a doctor’s duties, responsibilities, and the ethical system that governs respect for the patient’s life and health.

Core principles include:

prioritizing the patient’s life and health;

maintaining confidentiality;

honesty and responsibility;

non-discrimination and respectful communication;

providing psychological support;

being impartial throughout the treatment process.

Compliance with these principles ensures that the medical service aligns with international standards.

3. The art of patient communication and communication culture

The art of patient communication refers to the doctor’s ability to interact with patients politely, sincerely, clearly, and in a psychologically comfortable manner.

It includes the following components:

3.1. Beginning the interaction

greeting the patient and introducing oneself;

asking about the patient’s condition and initiating the conversation politely;

understanding the patient’s fears, anxiety, and pain.

3.2. Demonstrating empathy

Empathy is the ability to understand the patient’s emotional state, listen attentively, and respect their feelings.

Doctors with high empathy levels build stronger patient trust.

3.3. Using clear and understandable language

Excessive use of medical terminology can confuse patients.

Therefore, a doctor must:

explain information in simple, clear language;

present issues concisely;

provide written recommendations when necessary.

3.4. The culture of listening

Active listening means focusing on the patient without interrupting, carefully understanding their concerns.

This helps quickly identify health issues.

3.5. Culture of physical interaction

During medical examinations:

informing the patient about each step;

respecting the patient’s personal boundaries;

strictly following hygiene rules — are essential elements of medical professionalism.

4. Psychological impact of communication on treatmen effectiveness

Research shows that warm, respectful communication between doctor and patient:

reduces anxiety;

decreases perceived pain;

increases medication effectiveness;

accelerates rehabilitation.

Thus, effective communication serves as a psychological tool that complements medical treatment.

5. International experience and modern approaches

In advanced healthcare systems, the communication culture of medical workers is given special attention. For example:

In the United States, the “Patient-centered care” model is widely used;

In European countries, “Medical Communication Competence” courses are mandatory;

In Japan, empathy and politeness form an integral part of medical protocol.

These practices significantly improve the quality of healthcare services.

Conclusion

The professional culture of medical workers is one of the key factors in effective patient communication. A doctor’s ethics, speech culture, appearance, empathy, and adherence to medical ethical standards play an essential role in the success of the treatment process. In an environment where the art of communication with patients is well-developed, trust increases, psychological wellbeing improves, and rehabilitation becomes faster.

Therefore, enhancing the professional culture of medical workers, continuously improving communication skills, and aligning patient communication practices with international standards remain crucial tasks.

References

1. Karimova M. Fundamentals of Medical Ethics and Deontology. Tashkent, 2021.

2. World Health Organization (WHO). Patient-centered Communication Guidelines, 2020–2023.

3. Smith J. Medical Communication Competence. New York: Elsevier, 2019.

4. Rasulov A., Nasriddinov U. Medical Culture and Doctor–Patient Relations. Tashkent Medical Publishing, 2022.

5. European Medical Association. Doctor–Patient Interaction Standards, 2022.

Avazbekova Rayyonaxon was born on March 12, 2008, in Andijan city, Andijan region of the Republic of Uzbekistan, into an intellectual family.

She is a first-year student of the Andijan Branch of Kokand University, Faculty of Medical Treatment, group 25-11.

How Social Media Affects Young People

Nowadays, it is difficult to imagine life without social media. They have become an integral part of our lives: some people use them to stay informed about the news, others to communicate with friends, and some to gain knowledge. Especially among young people, the role of social media is enormous. However, their impact can vary from person to person — for some, they bring benefits, while for others, they become a reason for wasting time.

For me personally, social media brings more benefits. Because I try to use them properly. For example, through the “Ibrat Farzandlari” app, I do various exercises to learn German, English, and other foreign languages. This app helps me improve my vocabulary and make my speech more fluent. In addition, through the “Mutolaa” app, I read new books and stories every day. Such platforms awaken in me a love for reading and an interest in books.

However, unfortunately, not all my peers use social media correctly. Some spend most of their time watching useless or even harmful content. This reduces their attention to studying and negatively affects their mood. Some, on the other hand, become too immersed in the virtual world and gradually distance themselves from real-life relationships. In my opinion, the problem is not in social media itself, but in us, the youth. Because we are the ones who choose how to use them. If we use them to gain knowledge, learn languages, and stay informed about new events, they will be useful.

On the contrary, if we use them to waste time, compare ourselves with others, or follow meaningless posts, they will harm us. Social media, in fact, is a great opportunity for young people to expand their thinking, express themselves, and work on self-improvement. The important thing is to know how to use them in the right way. In conclusion, social media can be both useful and harmful — it depends on how we use them. I believe that every young person should learn to use social media in a way that brings benefit. Because every opportunity gives a real result only when it is used correctly.

O‘rozboyeva Shodiya Shonazar qizi was born on December 21, 2007, in Eshimjiron village, Gurlan district, Khorezm region, Republic of Uzbekistan. She is a first-year student at Urgench Innovative University, Faculty of Philology and Language Teaching: Uzbek Language.

Be healthy for our happiness, dear teacher

May your precious head be safe and sound,

May every morsel you eat be pure and blessed.

May the tears in your eyes stay hidden,

We always bow to you with respect —

Be healthy for our happiness, dear teacher.

You truly deserve honor and esteem,

We humbly bow our heads before you.

You have done so much good for us,

We are always grateful to you —

Be healthy for our happiness, dear teacher.

May you guide us at every moment,

May our path stay bright and clear.

Sincere wishes and heartfelt prayers —

We always acknowledge your kindness,

Be healthy for our happiness, dear teacher.

Avazova Diyora Alisher girl was born on July 17, 2007, in Kitob district, Kashkadarya region. She graduated from School No. 91 with a Gold Medal for her excellent academic performance, diligence, exemplary behavior, and initiative.

She is currently a member of the Kashkadarya Regional Youth Parliament’s Active Members team and a volunteer of the “Golden Wing” movement. She holds numerous international certificates and is a member of “JUNTOS POR LAS LETRAS” and the Global Friends Club. She has been awarded the “Best Promoter” certificate twice.

Her poems and articles have been published in Kenya, Uzbekistan, Egypt, Turkey, and several other international and local publishing houses. She is a graduate of the “Diamond Girls” project and won 2nd place in the “Initiator of the Year — 2024” competition. She is also a participant in the G4G program designed for girls.

She was a delegate of the “2024 Asia–Pacific Young Leaders Summit” and an official delegate of the Istanbul International Model United Nations. She serves as the Azerbaijan coordinator of the Shishu Ullash organization and is an official delegate of the “Future Office” Season 2.

She holds more than 50 international certificates. She is an official member of the “Towards Leadership” project and actively participates in various projects and competitions. She is a delegate of “ELEVATE MUN,” Deputy Head of Media Literacy at the “Yuksak Parvozim” Young Creators Movement, and coordinator of “Umid Yo‘gdusi.” She is also featured in the “Young Leaders” Encyclopedia.

PSYCHOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF COPING WITH STRESS IN PREGNANT WOMEN

Annotation:

This article highlights the causes of stress in pregnant women, their psychological characteristics, and the emotional and physiological changes occurring during this period. It also analyzes the importance of psychoprophylaxis and psychocorrection methods in coping with stress. The article emphasizes ways to reduce stress through psychological support, creating a positive environment, and strengthening family relationships.

Keywords: Pregnancy, stress, psychology, emotion, anxiety, psychocorrection, social support, psychoprophylaxis, maternal instinct, psycho-emotional state.

Introduction

Pregnancy is one of the most natural, and at the same time, emotionally delicate periods in a woman’s life. During this time, profound physiological, hormonal, and psychological changes occur in a woman’s body. Therefore, pregnancy requires special attention not only from a medical perspective but also from a psychological one. The pregnant woman’s psychological stability, emotional state, and the level of social support she receives directly affect her health, the mental development of the unborn child, and the well-being of the family environment.

Modern scientific research shows that stress, anxiety, depressive mood, and emotional instability are increasingly common among pregnant women. This is primarily influenced by the fast pace of modern life, economic and social pressures, family conflicts, lack of support, low self-esteem, and natural physiological changes experienced during pregnancy. Sometimes a woman may not experience pregnancy positively, may struggle to accept her condition, or may not feel prepared for motherhood, which intensifies internal psychological tension.

Stress is the body’s response to internal or external stimuli. While short-term stress can enhance adaptability, prolonged stress can seriously harm health. During pregnancy, the effects of stress become even stronger due to hormonal imbalance and increased sensitivity of the cardiovascular and nervous systems. As a result, high anxiety, fear, insomnia, and depressive symptoms may appear. These conditions negatively impact not only the mother’s health but also the psychological and physiological development of the fetus.

Providing psychological assistance, family support, a positive environment, and cooperation between medical and psychological specialists play a crucial role in stabilizing the emotional well-being of pregnant women. The application of psychoprophylaxis and psychocorrection methods, teaching women positive thinking, and preparing them to manage their emotions are effective in preventing stress.

The relevance of this topic lies in the fact that the psychological state of pregnant women affects not only their personal lives but also society’s responsibility to nurture a healthy generation. Therefore, studying the psychological characteristics of stress in pregnant women, analyzing its causes and consequences, and developing effective coping mechanisms is one of the important directions in contemporary psychological research.

Methodology

This research employed theoretical and practical methods of psychology.

Methods included:

• Direct interviews and questionnaires
• Observation
• Psychodiagnostic tests
  • Spielberger–Hanin Anxiety Scale
  • Beck Depression Inventory
• Psychological interviews

Research tasks:

• Identifying the main causes of stress in pregnant women
• Assessing the psycho-emotional state and studying its dynamics
• Developing and implementing stress management techniques

Applied Methods and Procedures

The study involved 40 pregnant women aged 25–35 from the gynecology department of Andijan City Family Polyclinic No. 1. Psychodiagnostic tests and interviews were conducted. The results were processed using standard statistical analysis methods in psychology.

Research Results and Analysis

The findings revealed that 68% of pregnant women experienced moderate stress levels, 20% had high anxiety levels, and 12% showed mild emotional instability.

Main stress factors identified:

1. Concerns about the fetus’s health
2. Conflicts in family relationships
3. Financial difficulties
4. Hormonal changes and dissatisfaction with physical appearance

Analysis

The results show that women who receive strong social and family support experience significantly lower stress levels. Those who receive psychological counseling and emotional support cope with their condition more easily and maintain psychological stability even after childbirth.

Discussion and Recommendations

The following recommendations are essential when working with pregnant women:

• Conduct psychological training sessions and counseling
• Introduce family psychocorrection programs to strengthen marital relations
• Recommend emotional relaxation techniques, music therapy, and breathing exercises
• Enhance cooperation between medical and psychological services

Important Factors

• Hormonal changes influence emotional stability
• Social environment and family relationships determine stress levels
• Psychological support is crucial for the health of both mother and baby

Conclusion

The analyses show that the physiological, hormonal, and psychological changes occurring during pregnancy significantly influence a woman’s overall mental state. Although stress is a natural protective response, its intensification can lead to psychological instability, anxiety, depression, and emotional tension. Therefore, studying the psychological aspects of stress management during pregnancy is important not only scientifically but also practically.

The research results confirm that the psychological stability of pregnant women is closely linked to their social environment, the level of family support, the quality of marital relationships, and the availability of medical and psychological assistance. A positive psychological atmosphere, affection, and a sense of being valued reduce stress levels, restore emotional balance, and ensure healthy motherhood.

Implementing psychoprophylaxis and psychocorrection programs during pregnancy, teaching stress management techniques, and using psychological methods such as breathing exercises, relaxation, and music therapy produce positive outcomes. These methods not only stabilize the woman’s emotional state but also positively influence the healthy psychological development of the baby.

A mother’s emotional well-being during pregnancy is not only a personal matter but also a social priority, as a psychologically healthy mother gives birth to a healthy child – shaping the physical and moral well-being of future generations.

References

1. Abdurakhmonova, G. Psychological Characteristics of Pregnant Women. Tashkent, 2020.
2. Beck, A. Foundations of Cognitive Therapy. Moscow, 2019.
3. Spielberger, Ch. The Psychology of Measuring Anxiety and Stress. Saint Petersburg, 2018.
4. Ministry of Health of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Reference Materials, 2023.
5. Yusupova, D. Perinatal Psychology. TDPU Publishing, 2022.
6. Lazarus, R. Stress and Emotion: A New Synthesis. Springer, 2006.
7. APA Psychological Bulletin. Pregnancy and Stress Management, 2021.
8. World Health Organization (WHO). Maternal Mental Health During Pregnancy. Geneva, 2022. 

The Blood of Hope

A single drop, yet it sustains

A river flowing through our veins,

It whispers life in every beat,

Where strangers’ hearts and fates may meet.

No crown I seek, no gold I wear,

But life itself, the gift I share.

For every life that breathes anew,

A silent prayer comes shining through.

Let nations rise, let colors fade,

When one hand gives, all fear decays.

For in that act, both strong and small,

Lies the purest bond that unites us all.

Mohan Maharana is a renowned social worker dedicated to humanitarian service and community upliftment. Over the years, he has personally helped more than 2,000 mentally ill individuals find treatment, dignity, and hope. His current focus lies in promoting voluntary blood donation and raising awareness about its life-saving importance. Beyond his social work, he also serves as the Global Director of the World Union of Poets, contributing to the union’s mission of uniting voices across cultures through poetry and compassion.

Scalpels on a Sunday Hymn

At the center of the slaughterhouse,

a song is awake

       toppled walls, void of rafters, tired floors.

There is a flock resting under the aegis

of mourning, I do not wish to rescue any.

Whether bruised or abraded

I do not wish to collect grief from its tongue.

The butchery is the beginning

 of memory,

the night it all started—scalpels— landing

on the nape of high-pitched bleats.

Perhaps, it was love and its frolicking

thinking tulips will spring

in a place built for ruin.

The shepherd, in whose name

they were gathered, did not hear

how they hemmed their ache to a song.

Ask the ewe gathering burnt hooves

of her love, his bones splintered.

the blood strewn through the asphalt

Ask the ash taking him home.

Home of Crease

                                         When the heart of men

                              grew lifeless like a moth caught

                                        in a spider’s web, 

                                           a woman, my mother’s age,

                                      walked the whispering street

                                                    singing.

                                  elegy–

                                         leaking from her mouth

                                                a song, tired of peculiar grief.

                                     her boys, beheaded

                              as proof of war’s torrid teeth.

                                                   her husband too, missing

                                & here is an incision: loss

                                              splits

                                                   the heart open

                                       and leaves the mouth longing.

                                               Somewhere, the radio unbuckles

                                              the voice of a man

                                  who says

                                                  Rana iriya tana tafe

                                              (A better day is coming)

                                     but we all know, the wall that

                                                 separates him from a corpse

                                      is a stray bullet, or perhaps

                                                      the language of his God.

                                           Across the street,

                                                 two children chase each other-

                                                         tree branches for guns,

                                                        fire fire!!

                                                  one plays dead.

                                                         Say,

                                                like this child, we live every day

                                                 practicing our death.

The Ache of My Father

               “Following the kidnap of a relative in August 2024”

All his friends were leaving,

not in the way his ancestors left. I mean,

there is a soul held in a forest.

Mouth, sealed. Hands tied. Helpless.

And we keep reaching for God,

like how the woman in red

crawls until her hands touch a spectacle.

Here, we kneel. We hustle the light under

our shadows of emptiness.

I found my father in saltwater, drowning.

An old photo, clutched in his hand.

Wanting to rescue all of them—

school boys, standing in memorial,

all shape shifting into earth’s marble cage,

we both agree there is nothing left

except hope. But how much hope is enough

to keep our hearts from weeping?

See, he is here, dressed in metaphors

and I hold a torch to say, I am still

searching.

Annah Atane is a Nigerian writer. Her works have appeared in the Brittle Paper, The Meniscus, The Muse, Valiant Scribe, The Kalahari Review, Ric Journal and elsewhere.