Addressing the psychological consequences of COVID-19 pandemic through Ayurveda: a positive approach for a positive perspective

Abstract

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has challenged the medical systems worldwide due to its fast-spreading nature, with health issues emerging such as clinical presentation, the psychological impact of isolation, and post-COVID complications. It has also created an alarming situation in terms of socioeconomic crisis and resultant psychological effects, causing emotional annoyance, anger, irritability, depression, insomnia, stress, fluctuating mood, irritability, insomnia, insecurity, confusion, emotional isolation, social stigma, economic loss, inadequate resources for health care, and deficient distribution of essentials. These effects have an impact on mental health in both the general population and the frontline health-care workers (HCWS). Most of the health-care providers are vulnerable to emotional distress, given their risk of exposure to the virus for longer hours and concern about caring for their loved ones. In the current pandemic, the overall quality of life is also affected, potentiating the need of prevention from psychological distress as well as appropriate management of the disease and its sequela. Ayurveda is well known for its holistic approach toward disease prevention as well as its management through divine therapy (Daivavyapasraya Chikitsa), medicinal therapy (Yuktivyapasraya Chikitsa), and psycho-supportive therapy (Satvavajaya Chikitsa). These steps along with Medhya Rasayana and Yoga practices will help in efficient prevention and management of the psychological consequence of COVID-19. In this review, we put forward the integrative holistic modalities of Ayurveda for the prevention and management of psychological disturbances created by the current pandemic.