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Mental health remains a relatively underexplored area in India. Taking a multi-pronged approach, this volume addresses the gap in indigenous knowledge by exploring intersections between Indian and western understandings of the subject.
Divided into three sections, the essays by experts in the field explore three distinct kinds of remedies. The first section deals with systematized ancient Indian therapies, including siddha, ayurveda, and yoga, for problems ranging from severe disorder to common mental depression. The second section, on folk or faith-based healing, discusses the therapeutic role of religious figures and icons. Taking a historical approach, the third section focuses on psychiatry in India. It examines Girindrasekhar Bose’s adaptation of Western methods, and includes the establishment of NIMHANS as a pilot institute of mental health.
An important consensus emerges through the diverse points of view expressed by the contributors. It says that any coherent approach to mental health in India must take into account the holistic environment. This includes religion, policy, and common people’s understanding of mental illness and wellness.
ISBN - 9780195698756
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Pages : 410
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