Healing the Self: Efficacy of Satvajaya Chikitsa and Vedantic Interventions on Depression, Self-Concept, and Emotional Regulation in Indian Adults—A Mixed-Methods Case Study Approach

Abstract

Depression affects millions globally, yet cultural stigma and limited resources often hinder effective care, particularly in collectivist contexts like India. This mixed-methods pilot study evaluated a 16-month intervention rooted in Indian psychology, integrating Satvajaya Chikitsa (Ayurvedic psychotherapy) and Vedantic practices to address trauma, self-concept, and emotional regulation among six Indian women (ages 27–35) with mild-to-moderate depression. The first 6 months served as an observation phase, with intervention effects observed from the 3-month mark onward. Participants chose from tailored intervention components (e.g., yoga, Pranayama, mindfulness, forgiveness rituals, self-inquiry) that resonated most with them, empowering them to engage with culturally relevant practices while raising awareness about mental health options. Quantitative outcomes, assessed at baseline, 4, 8, and 16 months using the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS), and Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ-15), were analyzed via repeated-measures ANOVA. Thematic analysis of interviews and journals elucidated socio-spiritual mechanisms. Significant improvements were observed in depression (BDI-II: M = 37.5 to 8.2, F(3, 15) = 52.31, p < .001, η² = 0.91), emotional dysregulation (DERS: M = 117 to 63.7, F(3, 15) = 48.76, p < .001, η² = 0.89), and mindfulness (FFMQ-15: M = 42.2 to 50.2, F(3, 15) = 19.45, p < .01, η² =0.79). Qualitative themes highlighted spiritual self-realization, relational healing, and emotional resilience. This participant-centered intervention offers a culturally informed model for global psychiatry, with implications for collectivist societies.