Author(s): Dr. Sana ur Rehman, Dr. Aisha Perveen and Dr. Azhar Hassan

Abstract:
Depression is the most common and most serious mental health problem affecting all age groups, genders, communities throughout the world. It is increasing very rapidly day by day. It is characterised by persistent sadness, and a loss of interest in daily activities that a person normally enjoys, accompanied by an inability to carry out daily activities for at least two weeks. In addition, there may be a loss of energy, a change in appetite, changes in sleeping pattern, anxiety, reduced concentration, indecisiveness, restlessness, feeling of worthlessness, guilt, hopelessness, thoughts of self-harm and committing suicide. According to WHO report, prevalence of depression is about 5% in general population. Currently more than 300 million people are suffering worldwide from it. It is the fourth leading cause of disability worldwide. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among adolescents suffering from depression. In Unani perspective, depression is not a disease rather it is a symptom or a group of symptoms of Malenkholiya (Melancholia) in which the mental functions of the individual are disturbed leading to constant grief, fear and uncertain aggression. The patient finds himself/herself isolated and occupied, feels lonely and some patients experience delusion and hallucinations. There is also a change in feelings, mood and behaviour of patient. At times patient becomes overanxious and his thoughts and thinking process gets disturbed. Person suffering from Malenkholiya becomes easily irritable, prefers loneliness and is fearful of usual things. There are a number of factors responsible for depression but Unani scholars consider Ghair Tabayi Sauda (Abnormal black bile) as the main cause of psychological and psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, etc. There are different regimens in Unani System of Medicine (USM) for correction of psychiatric disorders (depression) such as Ilaj-bil-Ghiza (dietotharapy), Ilaj bit tadabeer (regimenal therapy), Ilaj-bil-Dawa (pharmacotherapy or medicinal therapy).

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