Author(s): Muhammed Faisal P and Jithesh M

Abstract: In the contemporary sophisticated world, disasters are an inevitable part of our lives. Every year, disasters affect individuals and communities, disrupting their mental health and well-being along with the economic and social development. The concept of disaster in Ayurveda is described as Janapadodhwamsa by Acharya Charaka which means destruction or even suffering of a large population. The root cause of janapadodhwamsa is the pranjaparadha and adharma, which includes unfriendly activities at the social and environmental level. Along with social and economic loss, individuals and communities experience a state of mental instability that can further lead to adjustment disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and even substance abuse. Ayurveda describes about manasikavikara (psychological ailments) and unmada (psychiatric disorders) which can be incorporated with the mental health issues subsequentto a disaster. All psychiatric ailments result in the variation of the functions of the following domains, such as manas, budhi, samjnajnana, smrthi, bhakti, sheela, cheshta and achara, either partially or wholly. By examining these factors, one can identify a psychiatric ailment. As a preventive measure for minimizing psychopathologic effects, avoidance of prajnaparadha and adharma, adopting sadvritta, acara rasayana, yoga and pranayama can be adopted. If a psychiatric ailment is identified, various Ayurvedic measures including concept of satvajaya, and pharmacological solutions can be used effectively.