IMPACT OF SADVRITTA AND MORAL CONDUCT ON MENTAL HEALTH: A CLASSICAL AND CONTEMPORARY REVIEW

Abstract

Background: Sadvritta, or ethical code of conduct, forms a cornerstone of Ayurvedic preventive psychiatry. Classical texts such as Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita emphasize moral behavior, truthfulness, compassion, and discipline as essential for maintaining mental harmony (Manasika Swasthya). In modern psychiatry, similar attributes align with concepts like emotional intelligence, behavioral therapy, and resilience-building strategies. Exploring this alignment provides critical insight into preventive mental health strategies. Aim and Objectives Aim: To critically review and analyze the role of Sadvritta and moral conduct in the promotion of mental health from both Ayurvedic and contemporary perspectives. Objectives: To study the concept of Sadvritta as mentioned in Ayurvedic classics. To explore the psychological implications of moral conduct on Manasika Doshas and Sattva. To evaluate contemporary psychological literature that supports similar ethical behavior for mental well-being. To establish conceptual and functional correlations between classical ethics and modern mental health models. Materials and Methods: A descriptive and analytical review of Ayurvedic literature including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya was conducted. Parallelly, modern psychological and psychiatric journals, WHO mental health guidelines, and behavioral science research were reviewed. The data was synthesized thematically to identify commonalities and divergences. Results: Sadvritta practices significantly correlate with modern therapeutic principles such as mindfulness, cognitive behavior modification, emotional regulation, and stress resilience. The classical emphasis on non-violence, truth, compassion, and discipline showed parallels with modern psycho-social and cognitive interventions, supporting mental well-being and reducing susceptibility to anxiety, depression, and psychosomatic illness. Conclusion: Classical Ayurvedic principles of Sadvritta offer a timeless and holistic framework for mental health preservation. Integrating these moral and ethical conduct principles with contemporary mental health practices could offer synergistic benefits in preventive and therapeutic domains of psychiatry.