Management of Vishada (depression) through Trividha chikitsa: A case report

Abstract

Abstract: Depression has become a common psychiatric ailment affecting the middle-aged predominantly females due to lifestyle preferences and various psychosocial influences. Although there are ample medicaments available in conventional medical science, they come with a wide range of adverse effects. A comprehensive approach with different modalities of treatment and approaches collectively can help manage the signs and symptoms as well as social adaptation better. A 46-year-old single mother with complaints of overthinking, negative thoughts, panic attacks, excessive sweating, crying spells, guilt, self-blame, low self-confidence, disinterest in day-to-day activities, and generalized body pain, who was diagnosed with depression by a psychiatrist was managed by adopting Trividha chikitsa [Yukti vyapashraya (∼logical management rational internal and external treatments), Satvavajaya (∼counseling and psychotherapy), and Daivavyapashraya (∼spiritual/faith-based therapy)]. By the end of the treatment, improvement was seen both on subjective and objective parameters. She was cheerful and actively involved in day-to-day activities after the treatment. The Hamilton depression scale score was reduced to 9 from 25, and the pre-existing allopathic medications were gradually tapered after treatment and during subsequent follow-ups. The present case report is suggestive that a collective approach through Ayurveda addressing physical, psychological, and social concerns can give better and long-standing remission in depression.