Conduct Disorder: Can Ayurveda Help with Aggression and Behavioral Issues? - #16306

Hey there, I’m really sorry to hear what you’re going through with your brother. It’s tough seeing someone you care about struggling like this, especially when you’re not sure what’s causing it and how best to help.

Ayurveda definitely offers perspectives and remedies that may complement conventional treatments for conduct disorder, but I’d strongly recommend speaking to a mental health professional as a first step. The signs you’re describing do align with conduct disorder, but ruling out other issues is really important for getting the right support for your brother.

About Ayurveda, it absolutely emphasizes the balance between mind and body, and can help with emotional and behavioral issues. Let’s break it down a bit. If his diet is high in junk food and sugar, yeah, that can disrupt his normal mental balance. Unbalanced doshas, especially excess Pitta, can lead to aggressive behavior and irritability. Shifting to a more Pitta-pacifying diet could help moderate his behavior—think cooler, less spicy foods, lots of fresh veggies, fruits, and whole grains. Avoiding fried and processed stuff would be crucial.

For herbs, Brahmi and Jatamansi might be beneficial. They’ve been traditionally used to calm the mind, supporting emotional stability. Always remember to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner before starting any herbal regime, as they can guide you on dosages and any potential interactions.

As for lifestyle practices, yes, Abhyanga can be great! Regular oil massages with cooling oils like coconut or sunflower oil help in calming Vata and Pitta, easing tension and promoting relaxation. Meditation or even simple mindfulness practices could gradually help in reducing impulsiveness and promoting better self-awareness. It does take time though, not a magic switch, more like a steady journey.

Regarding sleep, poor rest can definitely aggravate behavioral issues. Encouraging a routine with set sleep times and limits on screen exposure before bed might make a big difference. Maybe a nightly routine including foot massage or warm baths can help him wind down.

Patience, sadly, is required with these interventions—some people start seeing changes within a few weeks, but a lot depends on consistency and how well he responds. Engaging him in activities that he enjoys but are calming could also be beneficial.

All this being said, monitoring his progress closely and regular consultations with both Ayurvedic and mental health professionals will be important in navigating this. Good luck, really hope these insights help!