Mental Health

WHO defines mental health as a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to contribute to her or his community.

Interaction of Body and Mind is also well thought of in Ayurveda. As stated beforehand, Mind is ultimately the Stronghold of the Body.

Mental well-being is a cardinal integrant of Ayurvedic definition of ‘Swasthya’ along with Physical and Spiritual well-being.  Ayurveda regards three metabolic elements present in our body. These are called Vata, Pitta and Kapha. These three are responsible for normal physiological functions when balance and pathological disorders when imbalanced. Similarly the disturbed Mental States also disturb the balance of these three Biological elements, which in turn cause diseases.

Common mental diseases.

• Generalised anxiety disorders (GAD)
• Insomnia
• Sleep apnoea
• Stress
• Depression etc.

• Family history of mental illness 
• Stressful life situations, such as financial problems, a loved one's death or a divorce
• An ongoing (chronic) medical condition, such as diabetes
• Brain damage as a result of a serious injury (traumatic brain injury), such as a violent blow to the head
• Traumatic experiences, such as military combat or assault
• Use of alcohol or recreational drugs
• A childhood history of abuse or neglect
• A previous mental illness
• Influence of unhealthy relationship or bad companion

The treatment modalities described in Ayurvedic classics include-:

• Spiritual  therapy
• Psycho-behavioral therapy 
• Logical therapy - using diet and herbs.
• Herbs and Herbo-Mineral Preparations

Example -

Reduce stress, support brain functions and good sleep - Ashwagandha, Jatamansi, Tagara, Brahmi, Shatavari, Vacha, Mandukaparni

Yoga plays a greater role in mental disorders as it is primarily meant for the equilibrium of Mind. Hence with Yoga, control of Mind (mano nigraha) is easily achieved. It is aptly regarded that Yoga removes mental diseases.