Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, offers a holistic approach to mental health that integrates the mind, body, and soul. Ayurveda is described as mental health in Atharva Veda and in subsequent treatises by Charak, Susrut, and Vagbhatt, containing the details of etiology, symptoms, diagnosis, and therapy for afflictions in humans and animals. The science of mental disorders describes extensive conditions from mild anger and greed to severe psychoses. Simultaneously the whole world is looking for the solutions of the inner conflicts afflicting the mental health sector. Ayurvedic theory of mental health is based on the combination of The three gunas, tridosha, and panchabhuta, The combination of these doshas and three gunas inherited at birth indicates an individual’s called Prakriti. The dynamic balance of these above elements creates good mental health. Daiva vyaprashraya, Yuktivyapashrya, Satvavajaya cikitsa, Aachara Rasayana, Dinacharya, and Yoga therapy are described in Ayurveda for resolving these ailments.
In its holistic approach, Ayurveda gives prime importance to positive mental health.Vishada and Avasada are two conditions that are closely similar to depression in the form of mental health.The great Ayurvedic Acharya Charaka quotes ‘Vishado Rogavardhananam
in his commentary, mean Vishada is the foremost factor to worsen the disease condition.This is the first principle regarding mental health in Ayurveda.Psychiatry in Ayurveda integrates mind, body, and soul. The mind-body connection is very important in Ayurveda.Physical imbalances can disturb mental state while mental illness leads to disruption of body functions
Ayurveda defines health as a balance of energy principles (Doshas) and a pleasant state of mind. It is holistic and acknowledges the mind-body-spirit connection.
Every Ayurvedic intake includes an assessment of psychological factors, lifestyle, and current stressors. Mental imbalances (Manovikara) are cared for as part of the disease process and aren’t stigmatized
Ayurvedic constitution is composed of three Doshas and their imbalances cause diseases. Vata imbalance typically causes anxiety and phobias, Pitta, anger, and obsessions, and Kapha could cause depression.
Likewise, we all go through phases of feeling uplifted, restless, or lethargic. These are attributes of the mind (Gunas). Sattva is the natural state of mind that we try to attain for optimal mental health. It is light, productive, and balanced.
Rajas is ambitious and restless and Tamas is lethargic and dull. While we need Rajas and Tamas to work or rest, their imbalance can cause anger or depression
