Management of Chittodvega w.s.r. to Generalised Anxiety Disorder through Shirodhara and Padabhyanga - A Case Report

Abstract

In this era of modernisation and busy lifestyle due to excessive work pressure, academic burden, negative impacts of social media, substance abuse etc. there is rapid progression of mental illness in the society. Generaised Anxiety disorder (GAD) is one such mental disorder which is spreading rapidly but neglected by many people due to social stigma and lack of mental healthcare awareness. Anxiety disorder is world’s most common mental disorders, affecting almost 301 million people in 2019. Women are more likely to experience an anxiety disorder than men. Antidepressant medications in contemporary medical system, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are used for treating adults with anxiety disorders but shows systemic side effects and drug dependency in long run. Chittodvega, classified as a Mano-Vikara (psychological disorder) in Ayurveda, can be correlated with general anxiety disorder. Asatmyaindriyartha Sanyoga and Pragyaparadh are some of the Nidana of Manovaha Srota Vikara. The disturbance of Vata Dosha along with Manas Dosha (Rajas and Tamas) plays a critical role in its manifestation. Herein, a 38-year-old married woman was treated with Shirodhara and Pada-Abhyanga for 14 days along with Shamana Aushadi and Medhya Rasayana. There were significant changes in Hamilton’s Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) along with other symptoms.