A holistic Ayurvedic approach to manage persistent depressive disorder, Vishada—A case report

Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD), formerly known as Dysthymia, is a chronic and enduring form of depression. In contemporary society, the pressures of modern lifestyles, pervasive feelings of uncertainty and insecurity, the fast pace of life, competition in various domains, suboptimal hygiene practices, and food adulteration have become primary contributors to the disruption of mental and physical well-being. Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD) can be correlated to Vishada in Ayurveda. This article presents a case study of a patient diagnosed with PDD (Persistent Depressive Disorder) as per DSM-5 criteria. Management was planned with integrative treatment consisting of Sattvavajaya chikitsa (Ayurveda psychotherapy), Shamana Chikitsa (oral medicines), and the skillful implementation of Viddhakarma, thus illustrating its efficacy in depression. The treatment persisted for six months, and the intervention outcome demonstrated a decrease in Hamilton Depression Rating scores, declining from 16 to 5 with a reduction of symptoms by the end of the six months of intervention. Viddhakarma, one among the eight shastra karma, is regarded as one of the most effective para-surgical procedures for regulating the vitiated dosha described by Acharya Shushrut and Acharya Vagbhata. This article is a sincere effort to emphasize the significance and application of Viddhakarma therapy along with the conventional Ayurveda treatment in manasik vikaras. Furthermore, the observed improvements were sustained even throughout the non-interventional observation period.