An Ayurvedic Management Protocol on Social Anxiety Disorder

Abstract

Social Anxiety Disorder is a disorder characterized by significant amount of fear in one or more social situations. This condition becomes clinically relevant when the fear last for 6 months or more. This clinical presentation has similarities with the description given in Arjuna Vishada Yoga mentioned in Bhagavat Gita and Vishadhata lakshana mentioned in Ashtanga Hrdaya. Based on these symptoms, it could be considered a Shareerika Manasika Vyadhi where there is an Udvega Avastha of Manas (excited state of mind) along with the predominance of Vata and Pitta dosha. The present-day management of Social Anxiety Disorder involves the usage of anxiolytics, and their use is limited owing to the risk of drug abuse and dependence. This is a case of a 22- year- old man who presented with severe anxiety, moist hands, and excessive sweating when confronting social situations. Based on the signs and symptoms, he was diagnosed with a case of Social Anxiety Disorder according to DSM-V diagnostic criteria. The treatment plan included Pacana Deepana with Gandharvahastadi Kashayam and Vaishwanara Choorna for 7 days at the OP level, followed by Shirodhara (pouring medicated oil on the forehead), Kalyanaka Ghrta (medicated ghee) as a Samanoushadhi (internal medicine) and Satvavajaya Chikitsa (counselling) for 7 days at the IP level, followed by Kalyanaka Ghrita as Samanoushadhi for 23 days at the OP level. Assessment of the patient’s condition before and after treatment was done using DSM-V assessment criteria to evaluate the efficacy of the treatment. After completion of treatment - 7 days at the OP level, 7 days at the IP level, and followed by 23 days of OP level administration of the medicine a significant reduction in the score, from 20 to 7 on the DSM-V assessment criteria, and improvement in symptoms were observed.