Abstract

Depression is a severe illness affecting a vast number of people in the globe with an estimated 15% of people experiencing severe and chronic depression. Depressed mood, low self-esteem, and loss of interest in normally enjoyable activities, if persists for a longer duration, is referred to as a Major Depressive Disorder in the clinical terms. In Ayurvedic terms, anything that disturbs the state of both body and mind is tend to produce a disease. , imbalance in the psychic energies (Satva, Rajas and Tamas) supported by imbalance of physical energies (Vata, Pitta & Kapha) are believed to cause various mental disorders. Depression is referred to as “Mano Avasaad” in Ayurveda. As per this holistic science, Depression is a kapha predominant imbalance. Along with it, the pathogenesis of Depression is the imbalance of Rajas and Tamas guna at the Psychic level. Deletion of Vata Dosha and vitiation of Kapha dosha is also found at the physical level. Hence, it takes both the physical and mental plane into consideration while designing the treatment protocol of Depression. Besides the various classical preparations and formulations of Ayurveda used for the disease, Non-pharmacolofical management also plays a major role in dealing with the disorder. Various dietary and lifestyle changes adjuvant to the Yogic procedures helps to strengthen and boost the depressed mind allowing one to cope with various life challenges more effectively and bringing positivity at psychological level.

Authors and Affiliations