Ayurveda and Global Mental Health: A Pluralistic Approach

The paper explores the intersection of Ayurvedic medicine and the Movement for Global Mental Health (MGMH) in India, focusing on changing mental health care practices. It notes the rise of biomedical psychiatric interventions under the World Health Organization (WHO) in India, despite evidence that schizophrenia patients in developing nations often fare better than those in developed countries. Ayurvedic practitioners in Kerala advocate for their integration into public mental health systems, pushing for a pluralistic approach rather than a solely biomedical model.

Ayurveda is officially recognized by the Indian government and employs medicinal plants and holistic techniques to treat mental health issues. The establishment of Snehaveedu, a rehabilitation center combining Ayurvedic and biomedical treatments, reflects ongoing efforts to maintain this pluralism.

The WHO's findings on effective schizophrenia management in developing countries indicate the potential benefits of incorporating diverse treatment methods, including traditional practices. Nevertheless, the MGMH predominantly promotes biomedical psychiatry, sidelining indigenous systems. In Kerala, Ayurvedic practitioners are working to secure their role in mental health by offering training workshops on Ayurvedic methods. Despite integration challenges within the dominant biomedical framework, a hybrid health delivery model is developing, underscoring the continued relevance of Ayurveda in India's mental health discourse.