Depression
Overview
Depression is a common mental disorder characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest and pleasure, feelings of guilt or low self-worth, disturbed sleep, poor appetite, low energy, and reduced concentration. It affects emotional well-being and daily functioning and can occur in individuals of any age group.
Untreated depression can lead to serious consequences including physical illness, substance abuse, and suicidal tendencies, significantly impacting quality of life.
Causes
- Family history
- Trauma and prolonged stress
- Low self-esteem and negative personality traits
- Medical illnesses
- Certain medications
- Psychological disorders
- Loneliness and lack of social support
Clinical Features
- Mood variations, often worse in the morning
- Changes in sleep and eating habits
- Weight gain or weight loss
- Feelings of guilt, hopelessness, or worthlessness
- Slowed thoughts, speech, and movements
- Negative thoughts, low self-esteem, and thoughts of death or suicide
- Unexplained aches and pains (somatic complaints)
- Irritability, anxiety, and short temper
- Tearfulness without apparent reason
- Lack of concentration and difficulty making decisions
- Feeling of loneliness
- Reduced interest in sexual activity
Ayurvedic Management Approach
Preventive therapy plays a major role in the management of depression. The Ayurvedic approach focuses on restoring mental balance, strengthening the mind, and eliminating contributing factors.
- Nidana Parivarjana (avoidance of causative factors)
- Shodhana Chikitsa (bio-cleansing therapies)
- Shamana Chikitsa (palliative therapies)
Preventive and Supportive Measures
- Consumption of fiber-rich foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and Amla
- Regular physical and mental activity
- Engaging in social interactions to avoid loneliness
- Continuing medications as advised by the Vaidya
- Practice of Yogasanas and meditation
- Avoidance of excessive and negative thinking
- Regular counseling and mental health support
