Vedic literature on mental health

The rising awareness about mental health is a much needed change that our society deserves. Until few years back, discussing mental health was considered a taboo. But, nevertheless, we are gradually moving towards a better set-up where people realize that ‘it is okay, not to be okay’.

It is some 200 years ago that modern psychology was established as a science, which was originally derived from philosophy and physiology. This is a modern perspective. While, our vedic philosophy describes Atman as the core of human existence whereas; the other traits and tendencies mentioned in psychology, are a part of it. Veds mention mantras as a tool for generating positive thoughts and purifying the mind via prayers because, prayers are seen as a form of psychotherapy in the Veds.

The Rigved distinguishes mental illness as a separate condition from physical illness and defines the Trigun (Sattva gun, Rajo gun, and Tamo gun) as traits of personalities. The psychopathology has its roots in the understanding of the Triguns and Tridoshas. Ancient scriptures also refer to the ‘Manas’, a super sensory organ that controls all other senses. ‘Manas’ is the conceptual equivalent of mind. There is also reference to an entity called Buddhi (intelligence), which is considered higher than Manas, and relates to the capacity for judgement.

The Veds also mention the eight limbs of the Ashtang Yog as therapeutic approaches. 'Yam - Niyam' which includes the moral values and duties, 'Asan - Pranayam', which includes postures and breathing techniques, while Pratyahar, Dharana, Dhyan and Samadhi being the advanced stages of consciousness. The ideas of perception, thought, and memory, as well as the many mental states like Jaagrit, Swapna, Sushupti, and Samadhi, are all described in the Upanishads. They identified the three cognitive capacities as Ichchha Shakti (will power), Kriya Shakti (physical activity), and Jnana Shakti (knowledge).

It was important to simplify Vedic and Upanishad teachings for common masses, as they were difficult to understand. In comparison to the Veds and Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita is thought to be a more concise and simplified version. One of the oldest documented accounts of depression and anxiousness as they are manifested in 'Arjun' can be found herein, along with descriptions of the many elements of psychotherapy. The Ayurved is not only confined to curing physical illnesses. Similarly, the Sushrut Samhita and the Charak Samhita mention the various aspects and treatments of the mental ailments. The texts also mention treatment for mental ailments such as epilepsy, sleep disorders, aggression and psychosis. The Veds refer to psychosis as Unmaad, which is a delusional state of mind.

Sometime ago, I had a discussion with my very dear friend who is also a psychologist and practicing in Pune for the last 7-8 years. When I said that, ‘Yog could very well be included as a therapy’, to which she retorted, ‘how can a qualified person like you say something as absurd as this’! Well, I was taken aback for a moment, but then I realised that we, as in Indians, are too fascinated for having that western approval for everything. However, I firmly believe that if we can utilize Yog and other ancient Indian concepts in our daily lives, we may be able to cure many underlying mental and physical health issues because, Indian culture is a way of life, backed by science. It is not a bunch of random rituals and customs. If followed properly, we can become much better version of ourselves.

Anyway, let’s get back to the ancient Indian texts. Although mental health and spiritual life are not necessarily synonymous, Indian culture emphasizes inner mental experiences and existence. The ultimate objective of life is self-realization and detachment from worldly matters. Based on this theory, ancient Indian texts place a specific emphasis on yog and meditation. Hath Yog, Mantra yog, Raaj Yog and Lay yog are its four sub-divisions. Rishi Patanjali, also referred to as the father of yog, is the author of the Yog Sutras, where he has described the science and benefits of yog.

These ancient theories of the nature of mind are being explored more and more in modern psychiatry. Recently, there has been a lot of emphasis on the person centered approach in psychiatry. It is essential to have a fundamental awareness of the religious background, socio-cultural background, ethnicity, of the client when treatment is focused on them and their caregiver. India is a collectivistic civilization, and even now, the family has a higher level of closeness. In terms of providing care for the mentally ill, family members are valuable resources.

Thus, in my personal humble opinion, the amalgamation of techniques from various ancient Indian disciplines boosts the holistic well being, which can ultimately push us towards attaining higher consciousness.