An integrative approach towards prevention & management of psychological illnesses during COVID 19 crisis

Abstract

Widespread outbreaks of infectious disease, such as COVID-19, are associated with psychological distress and symptoms of mental illness. To date (June 29th, 2020), over 10,021,401 confirmed cases and 499,913 deaths attributable to this disease have been reported. Ayurveda though being an ancient life science clearly mentions about such disease conditions. A detailed chapter on Janapadodhwansa in Charaka Samhita explains epidemic disease and its etiological factors. Adharma as the root cause of Janapadodhwansa. The current article is a narrative review of the existing literature on mental health symptoms and interventions relevant to the COVID-19 pandemic. Psychiatric and psychological problems that were present before the pandemic and the Patho-plastic effects of the pandemic on these problems; the responses to social isolation and lockdown; the psychological response to the diagnosis public responses to those with symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 infection, as well as the aftermath ofthe infection. Timely identification of high-risk groups especially those with prior mental health issues, are essential to prevent extreme events such as suicide and other impulsive behaviors. Acharya Charaka has described Chikitsa Siddhant to be followed during Janapadoudhwamsa; Karma Panchavidham, Rasayananamupyoga. Langhan, Langhan-Pachana and Doshavasechan. Harsha Prinananam - Cheerful mind best in bringing delightfulness. Charaka has also stated that the disease of a patient having Pravara-Sattva recovers quickly as compared to patients of Avara-Sattva. Also, body and mind follow and influences each other i.e. any kind of change in mental status results in both physiological as well as psychological variation from normalcy.