Integrated Ayurvedic Approach to Managing Generalized Anxiety Disorder through Yukti Vyapashraya and Sattvavajaya Chikitsa: A Case Report
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70066/jahm.v14i5.2775Keywords:
Ayurveda, case report, Chittodwega, generalized anxiety disorder, Sattwavajaya chikitsa, Yuktivyapashraya chikitsaAbstract
Background: Generalized Anxiety Disorder is a common mental health condition characterized by persistent and excessive worry, restlessness, irritability, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, disturbed sleep, and impaired daily functioning. In Ayurveda, these symptoms resemble Chittodvega, caused by imbalances of the Vata and Pitta Doshas and an excess of Rajo Guna, which disrupts the Manovaha Srotas. Psychosocial stressors such as emotional neglect and interpersonal conflicts act as important nidanas in the development of the condition. Clinical findings: A 57-year-old married homemaker presented with a two-year history of persistent and excessive worry, apprehension, grief, irritability with occasional anger outbursts, emotional suppression, lethargy, disturbed sleep, and symptoms as mentioned above. Her psychosocial history included emotional dependence on her children, marital conflicts, perceived criticism, and long-term emotional suppression, which had a more impact. The Mental Status Examination revealed an anxious mood, restricted affect, psychomotor agitation, and ruminative thoughts, with preserved insight. According to the DSM-5, she was diagnosed with GAD. Intervention: The patient received a combined Ayurvedic treatment integrating Yukti Vyapashraya Chikitsa and Sattvavajaya Chikitsa. Shamana therapies included Manasamitra Vati, Vishamushti Vati, and Maha Rasnadi Kashaya, along with Panchakarma procedures such as Sarvanga Abhyanga, Swedana, Shirodhara, Shiropichu, and Basti. Sattvavajaya strategies involved Yoga Nidra, art therapy, music therapy, positive affirmations, and structured counseling for herself and her spouse. Outcomes: Marked improvements were observed in HAM-A, HAM-D, and ISI scores, decreasing from 25 to 4, 18 to 1, and 19 to 0, respectively, indicating a substantial reduction in anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Patient experienced improvement in sleep quality, emotional stability, confidence level, and QOL. Conclusion: This case illustrates that an integrated Ayurvedic approach combining Yukti Vyapashraya and Sattvavajaya Chikitsa can effectively treat Chittodvega (GAD) by balancing the tridoshas and addressing maladaptive thoughts, thereby improving psychological resilience and overall well-being.
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