ArticleLiterature Review

Hatha Yoga for Depression: Critical Review of the Evidence for Efficacy, Plausible Mechanisms of Action, and Directions for Future Research

Authors:
To read the full-text of this research, you can request a copy directly from the authors.

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to review the evidence for the efficacy of hatha yoga for depression and possible mechanisms by which yoga may have an impact on depression, and to outline directions for future research. Literature review and synthesis. A literature search for clinical trials examining yoga for depression uncovered eight trials: 5 including individuals with clinical depression, and 3 for individuals with elevated depression symptoms. Although results from these trials are encouraging, they should be viewed as very preliminary because the trials, as a group, suffered from substantial methodological limitations. We would argue, however, that there are several reasons to consider constructing careful research on yoga for depression. First, current strategies for treating depression are not sufficient for many individuals, and patients have several concerns about existing treatments. Yoga may be an attractive alternative to or a good way to augment current depression treatment strategies. Second, aspects of yoga-including mindfulness promotion and exercise-are thought to be "active ingredients" of other successful treatments for depression. Third, there are plausible biological, psychological, and behavioral mechanisms by which yoga may have an impact on depression. We provide suggestions for the next steps in the study of yoga as a treatment for depression.

No full-text available

Request Full-text Paper PDF

To read the full-text of this research,
you can request a copy directly from the authors.

... Notwithstanding its advantages for patients themselves, yoga additionally has an extraordinary job for overseeing misery showing in family parental figures of patients with dementia (Waelde et al., 2004). Scientists likewise bolster the promising job of yoga as mediation for gloom since it the intercession is financially savvy and simple to execute (Uebelacker et al., 2010) Anyway a point to consider is that all the mind body intercessions do appear to be compelling when contrasted with aloof controls yet reports are less decisive when contrasted and dynamic controls (Uebelacker et al., 2010). ...
... Notwithstanding its advantages for patients themselves, yoga additionally has an extraordinary job for overseeing misery showing in family parental figures of patients with dementia (Waelde et al., 2004). Scientists likewise bolster the promising job of yoga as mediation for gloom since it the intercession is financially savvy and simple to execute (Uebelacker et al., 2010) Anyway a point to consider is that all the mind body intercessions do appear to be compelling when contrasted with aloof controls yet reports are less decisive when contrasted and dynamic controls (Uebelacker et al., 2010). ...
Article
Full-text available
Yoga is a complete science, a complete lifestyle, a complete medical practice and a complete spiritual education. The secret of the popularity of yoga is that it has never distinction from the narrowness of gender, caste, class, community, region and language. Any seeker, thinker, recluse, practitioner, brahmachari, householder can get benefited by attaining the same. It has proved useful not only in the creation and upliftment of the individual but also in the all-round development of the family, society, nation and the world. Yoga is the solution to the stress, disturbance, terrorism, lack and ignorance of modern human society. Yoga is a wonderful technique to bring man on the paved path of positive thinking which was invented by the intelligent sages of India, millions of years ago. Maharhi Patanjali performed it in the form of Ashtanga Yoga, disciplined, edited and executed. A healthy person and a happy society can only be created by going in the condition of yoga. Yoga is not only the discipline of ascetics, recluse and yogis who live in cave, but it is also very much needed for the general householder. It is a matter of surprise that we are ready to exploit our financial, physical and mental by falling into a two-hundred-year-old allopathic medical system. For millions of years, we remain indifferent to old yoga, remain ignorant, which is not only authentic but also teaches free treatment.
... Yoga has been documented to subdue the excess stress reactivity, cortisol levels, regulate the HPAA by lowering the SNS stimulation (Govindaraj et al., 2016;Uebelacker et al., 2010). Yoga improves GABA levels by vagus nerve stimulation that increases parasympathetic nervous system tone by vagal afferents (Streeter et al., 2007;Streeter et al., 2010). ...
... Studies on yoga alone yielded substantial antidepressant and anxiolytic effects through the elevation of serum BDNF levels (Cramer et al., 2013;Naveen et al., 2013). Yoga replaces the poor reinforcing behavior, creating an alternative focus through mindfulness, promoting the acceptance of distressing thoughts and emotions thereby, reducing the rumination (Uebelacker et al., 2010). ...
Article
Full-text available
A BSTRACT Background Given the stress of imprisonment and isolation from families, the women prisoners are subjected to increased anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation. Due to these negative outcomes, it is imperative to find efficient nonpharmacological interventions. Yoga improves mental health in both correctional settings and the general population. Studies conducted on the mental health of female prison inmates are scarce. Materials and Methods A randomized controlled trial was used and instigated on 76 women prisoners with moderate-to-severe stress levels, randomly allocated into Group 1 (n = 36) and Group 2 (n = 40). Group 1 was taught with 90 min of Integrated Approach of Yoga Therapy and Group 2 was taught with 90 min of free choice physical exercise for 15 days. Assessments were taken before and after the intervention. Data were analyzed using the analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) adjusting for the baseline differences. Results Significant difference in effect was found between the groups in the State Trait Anxiety Inventory, Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), emotion regulation questionnaire, and positive and negative affect questionnaire schedule (PANAS). Within group analysis demonstrated improved scores in all psychological constructs in the yoga group. Although some constructs also shown significant changes in the control group, the effect size was less when compared to the yoga group. Conclusion Yoga can be administered in the prison setting daily to maintain the mental health of the women prisoners.
... Few studies have examined how or why yoga or meditation might improve depression symptoms. For example, yoga practice may lead to improved regulation of stress reactivity via the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and the noradrenergic, serotonergic, and dopaminergic systems, or, on another level, promotion of more adaptive ways of thinking, including increasing acceptance and decreasing self-criticism (Uebelacker et al., 2010). Qualitative studies on yoga support those above theories, as individuals practicing yoga describe that yoga increases their acceptance of life's burden (Cramer et al., 2013a), and decreases rumination (Kinser et al., 2013a,b). ...
... The reduction of stress is one of the most popular and plausible modes of action (Chiesa and Serretti, 2009;Uebelacker et al., 2010). However our analysis found no influence of yoga/meditation practice on the perceived stress mediated pathway. ...
Article
Full-text available
Objectives This study aims to examine the role of yoga/meditation in the relationship between negative life events, stress and depression. Methods The Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health (ALSWH) surveyed 7,186 women aged 36–43 years (mean age 39.2 years; 57.2% university degree) in 2015. Mediation and moderation analyses were conducted to examine whether yoga/meditation practice moderated those relationships. Results Yoga/meditation was practiced by 27.5% of participants, 33.2% reported negative life events in the past 12 months, and 24% had clinical depression. Perceived stress partially mediated the association between negative life events and depressive symptoms (B = 6.28; 95%CI 5.65; 6.92). Social support (B = −0.38; 95%CI −0.54; −0.23) and optimism (B = −0.25;95%CI −0.31; −0.18) moderated the association between stress and depressive symptoms. Yoga/meditation practice moderated the direct association between negative life events and depressive symptoms (B = −0.92; 95%CI −1.67; −0.18). Conclusion Yoga/meditation use was a significant moderator of the relationship between negative life events and depression. Yoga/mediation use did not act via reducing perceived stress, but instead was found to dampen the influence of negative life events on depression directly. More research on how yoga has an impact on depression is warranted.
... These are four publications on therapeutic effects of yoga in diminishing depression 6,12 and one is breathing deeply in yoga 13 and one summary 14 . Researchers have found depression caused from various sources, its elevation and its increasing symptoms in everyday life. ...
... Many researchers have shown that yoga removes the symptoms of depression from people. In comparison to other exercises yoga actively control depression 12 . Yoga practices brings change in neurotransmitter chemicals by electrophysiological changes and removes depression mainly by GABA 6,13 . ...
... Crucially, it's imperative that these activities are tailored to be enjoyable and comfortable, ensuring adherence and pleasure in the process [21]. Practices such as gentle yoga and tai chi extend beyond physical wellness, offering mental relaxation and serving as potent tools in combatting depression [22,23]. ...
Article
Full-text available
Objective This study sought to conduct a meticulous systematic review, delving into the efficacy of exercise interventions on depressive symptoms among middle-aged and older adults. Additionally, we aimed to scrutinize the nuanced influence of various intervention factors on the intricate relationship between exercise and depressive symptoms within this demographic. Methods Our investigation involved an extensive search across multiple databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library, spanning from the inception of these repositories to December 2023. Following a rigorous screening process, we identified and included 12 papers, encompassing a total of 994 subjects. Results The meta-analysis unveiled a compelling overall effect size of exercise interventions on depressive symptoms in middle-aged and older individuals, represented by SMD = -0.41, with a 95% confidence interval of [-0.60, -0.22], and P < 0.0001. This statistical evidence underscores the significant and positive impact of exercise interventions on ameliorating depressive symptoms in this demographic. However, a degree of heterogeneity among studies was observed, with I² = 48% and P = 0.03. Conclusion The comprehensive synthesis of outcomes elucidates the pronounced positive effect of exercise interventions in enhancing depressive symptoms among middle-aged and older adults. Specifically, the gentle and balanced exercise series emerges as particularly efficacious in mitigating depression. Furthermore, individual exercises stand out as more effective, with optimal results noted for moderate exercise sessions lasting 30 to 60 minutes. Our findings also highlight the superiority of short-term interventions, followed by medium- and long-term exercise interventions, in terms of efficacy. Nevertheless, recognizing the inherent heterogeneity and potential limitations of our study, we advocate for future large-scale, comprehensive investigations to validate these findings. Additionally, optimizing exercise intervention protocols necessitates a more nuanced understanding, urging further research endeavors to refine strategies aimed at improving depressive symptoms in middle-aged and older adults.
... Several studies have explored the effectiveness of yoga as an intervention for depression. Uebelacker et al. (2010) critically reviewed the evidence for the efficacy of Hatha yoga in treating depression, highlighting its potential mechanisms and providing directions for future research. Similarly, Pilkington et al. (2005) systematically examined research on yoga for depression, concluding that yoga demonstrates significant promise as an adjunctive therapy. ...
Article
This quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design involving 76 participants divided into three age groups study investigates the influence of age on post-intervention depression outcomes using Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) scores. Three age groups-adolescents (15-18 years), young adults (19-22 years), and late young adults (23-26 years)-participated in a structured yoga intervention of 45 minutes, 3 times a week, comprising pranayama, asanas, and relaxation techniques was implemented. Statistical analyses, including One-Way ANOVA and Welch's test, were employed to evaluate differences in post-intervention BDI scores across groups. Results indicated no statistically significant differences, suggesting consistent intervention efficacy regardless of age. Post-intervention BDI scores showed slight variations among the age groups, with means of 11.23 (15-18 years), 10.76 (19-22 years), and 10.10 (23-26 years). ANOVA results (F(2,73) = 0.41, p = 0.665) and Welch's test (F(2,46.54) = 0.39, p = 0.678) confirmed no significant differences. These findings support the null hypothesis, suggesting the intervention's consistent effectiveness across age groups. The findings contribute to understanding the generalizability of non-pharmacological interventions in managing depressive symptoms. Changes in BDI scores served as the dependent variable, with age groups as the independent variable. Conclusion: The study underscores the potential of yoga as a universally effective intervention for depression, irrespective of age. While no significant age-related differences were observed, future research could explore other demographic and psychological factors influencing intervention outcomes. These insights can inform tailored mental health strategies and optimize resource allocation in therapeutic programs.
... In the current study, using a randomized controlled trial (RCT), we intended to provide evidence on whether a brief online yoga-and mindfulness-based intervention can be beneficial for women who have experienced DV. Additionally, as suggested by previous research on the working mechanisms of yoga and mindfulness interventions (Gard et al., 2014;Hosseinzadeh Asl & İl, 2022;Pascoe et al., 2021;Schuver & Lewis, 2016;Uebelacker et al., 2010), we examined self-compassion and rumination as the possible working mechanisms of our intervention. Thus, the aim of the current study was first to design a brief yoga-and mindfulness-based psychoeducation program and to investigate its effectiveness in improving DV survivors' psychological health. ...
Article
Full-text available
Purpose This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of a brief online yoga- and mindfulness-based psychoeducation program and its possible working mechanisms (rumination and self-compassion) in improving psychological health parameters (depression, anxiety, and stress) among women who have experienced domestic violence (DV). Method In a randomized controlled trial, 51 women who had survived DV were assigned to either an intervention group (n = 27) or a waitlist control group (n = 24). The intervention was a five-week yoga- and mindfulness-based psychoeducation program conducted online. Before and after the intervention, the presence of symptoms related to depression, anxiety, and stress, as well as the level of rumination and self-compassion were assessed. Results At the post-test, participants in the intervention group reported higher mean scores in self-compassion and lower mean scores in rumination, depression, anxiety, and stress compared to those in the waitlist control group. Mediation analyses revealed that rumination and self-compassion mediated the intervention’s effects on psychological health parameters. Discussion Our findings support the effectiveness of a brief online yoga- and mindfulness-based psychoeducation program for improving the psychological health of women who have experienced DV. Self-compassion and rumination emerged as working mechanisms underlying the intervention’s success. Future research should explore brief yet effective online psychoeducation programs, considering self-compassion and rumination as potential working mechanisms when designing interventions for women who have experienced domestic violence. Clinical Trial Registration This study has been retrospectively registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06061029).
... Moreover, yoga's impact on self-control and self-efficacy may indirectly contribute to better academic outcomes by facilitating effective study habits, time management, and goal setting [9] . While research on the influence of yoga on college students' self-control, self-efficacy, and academic performance is still emerging, preliminary findings indicate its potential benefits [10] . However, existing studies often focus on diverse populations and lack specific investigations targeting college students. ...
Article
Full-text available
This study explores the influence of yoga practices on self-control, self-efficacy, and academic performance among female college students at Yunnan Vocational and Technical College of Agriculture. A qualitative approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with thirty female students enrolled in yoga courses. The integration of yoga philosophy and Self-Determination Theory (SDT) provided a theoretical framework for examining the potential benefits of yoga practice. Thematic analysis revealed that yoga significantly enhances self-control through mindfulness and self-discipline, improves self-efficacy by fostering a sense of accomplishment and community, and positively impacts academic performance by promoting stress management and focus. These findings suggest that integrating yoga into educational settings can support students' well-being and academic success. However, the study's limitations, including its focus on female participants and potential biases, indicate the need for further research to generalize the results across diverse populations and educational contexts.
... Overall, participants reported that yoga was a helpful adjunct to their psychological therapy, providing somatic and experiential ways to enhance recovery. The limited available literature suggests that there are benefits in using yoga as an adjunct therapy for a range of mental health diagnoses [53] and may enhance engagement in psychotherapy processes [52,54]. Yoga's multiple techniques can provide an experiential platform [55] promoting introspection, cognitive, emotional, and behavioural changes [56], making it functional and transdiagnostic in its approach [57]. ...
Article
Full-text available
Background This qualitative enquiry explores the experiences and perspectives of individuals with an eating disorder (ED) regarding their perceptions of yoga as an adjunct intervention to psychotherapy. It also explores the feasibility, acceptability, and safety of yoga from their perspectives. Methods This study used a practice-based evidence framework and employed semi-structured interviews with 16 females with an ED. Participants were asked about their perspectives on the use of yoga as an adjunct intervention in ED recovery, perceived risks and what factors supported or hindered engagement. Thematic template analysis was used. Results Three topic areas were elaborated. The first included participants’ perceptions of how yoga enhanced their ED recovery. The second included how and when participants came to find yoga in their ED recovery. The final topic explored factors that supported participants with ED to engage in yoga. These resulted in the development of guiding principles to consider when designing a yoga intervention for EDs. Conclusions This study adds further to the emerging evidence that yoga can bring complementary benefits to ED recovery and provides a biopsychosocial-spiritual framework for understanding these. Findings provide an understanding of how yoga programs can be adapted to improve safety and engagement for people with an ED. Yoga programs for people with EDs should be co-designed to ensure that the physical, social, and cultural environment is accessible and acceptable.
... Yoga ist wirksam bei der Förderung der psychischen Gesundheit und der Behandlung depressiver Symptome. Es konzentriert sich auf die Schulung des Körperbewusstseins, die Verbesserung der Körperfunktionen und die Herbeiführung von Entspannungszuständen (Louie 2014;Uebelacker et al. 2010). Insbesondere Achtsamkeits-und Meditationselemente haben sich als erfolgreiche Strategien zur Reduktion depressiver Symptome und Ängste erwiesen (de Manincor et al. 2015). ...
Article
Full-text available
Zusammenfassung Hintergrund Die psychische Gesundheit ist ein wesentlicher Bestandteil der allgemeinen Gesundheit, und Präventionsmaßnahmen mit dem Ziel, diese Komponente der Gesundheit zu erhalten und zu fördern, haben in den letzten Jahrzehnten zunehmend an Bedeutung gewonnen. In Europa sind Depressionen der wichtigste Einzelfaktor für psychische Gesundheitsprobleme. Die hohe Prävalenz und die besonders hohe Krankheitslast von Depressionen begründen ein großes Interesse an wirksamen, früh einsetzenden, niedrigschwelligen und individuellen Präventionsmaßnahmen für die Allgemeinbevölkerung. Ziel Ziel dieses Beitrages ist es, einen Überblick über die Entwicklung und Struktur des evidenzbasierten Anwendungsprogramms „Anima Mentis“ zur Förderung der psychischen Gesundheit und Prävention psychischer Erkrankungen zu geben. Ergebnis Basierend auf einer narrativen Literaturrecherche zur Identifizierung evidenzbasierter Interventionen wurden Erkenntnisse zu monosensorischen und multisensorischen Stimulationen zur Reduktion depressiver Symptome und zur Förderung des psychischen Wohlbefindens in das Programm „Anima Mentis“ überführt. Dieses modular aufgebaute Programm wird in einem Behandlungszentrum mit verschiedenen Raumkonzepten wie Bewegungsraum, Lichtraum, Virtual Reality (VR)-Raum, Nature-360°-Kino und Sinnesraum umgesetzt. Schlussfolgerung Das Praxisprojekt „Anima Mentis“ verfolgt einen personalisierten Ansatz zur Förderung der psychischen Gesundheit. Dieses Konzept bietet das Potenzial, in verschiedene Versorgungseinrichtungen wie z. B. die betriebliche Gesundheitsförderung integriert zu werden. Um die Evidenzlage zur multisensorischen Stimulation zu erweitern und Einblicke in spezifische Nutzergruppen, insbesondere im präventiven Kontext, zu gewinnen, ist zukünftige Forschung notwendig.
... A recent comprehensive review of the potential mechanisms by which physical activity may reduce depressive symptoms identified a range of biopsychosocial pathways that are likely to have broad relevance to understanding the mechanisms of yoga [56]. The slow rhythmic breathing practices and meditative/ relaxation practices of yoga are designed to induce a sense of calm, well-being, stress tolerance, and mental focus, all of which may minimize depression [57,58]. ...
Article
Full-text available
Introduction: The present study aims to compare the effects of massage, selected yoga exercises and massage-yoga combination methods on symptoms of depression. Materials and Methods: According to the research criteria, 60 available samples were selected and randomly divided into three experimental groups and single control one. The Beck Depression Inventory was completed by the examinees before the intervention, two months after its beginning and one month after ending. Each experimental group received one of the massage interventions, selected yoga exercises and massage-yoga combination for eight weeks, three sessions per week and for a period of 40 minutes per session. The data were analyzed using 4 (group) × 3 (measurement) factorial analysis of variance method (ANOVA) and Bonferroni post hoc test was employed to compare the intragroup differences in the measurement steps and intergroup ones. The significance level of alpha was considered to be 0.05. Results: The results showed that there was a significant difference in the level of depression within the three experimental groups of massage (0.001), yoga (0.00) and combination (0.00). There was also a significant difference between the four groups in the depression variable (0.001). But the combined exercise program of massage and yoga had the most effect in improving the symptoms of depression. Conclusion: The results of this research showed that all three methods of massage intervention, selected yoga exercises and the combination of massage and yoga led to the improvement of depression symptom. However, there was a significant difference between the three approaches and the massage-yoga combinative exercise program was found to have the greatest effect on functioning of people with depression.
... It affects how a person feels, thinks and behaves and can lead to emotional and physical problems. Four relevant publications were referred to in this paper to study the effect of depression, including two reviews on the effects of yoga on depression [3,4], a description of studies on yogic breathing [5] for depression, and one "summary" [6]. Although several trials reported beneficial effects of yoga for depressive symptoms. ...
Article
This paper studies the current research on the impact of yoga applications on various components of different mental and physical health aspects, by focusing on the findings presented in review articles. Inclusively, these articles suggest a variety of areas where yoga may be helpful, but some more research is required for all of them to identify the benefits of yoga on mental and physical health. The variability of the treatments and conditions examined has hampered the usage of meta-analysis as an appropriate tool for summing up existing literature. However, some meta-analyses indicate the beneficial effects of yoga treatments, and there are several high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that suggest favourable effects of yoga on pain-associated injury and mental health. Yoga may be successful in reducing some medical problems as a supporting supplement, yet not an established stand-alone, curative therapy. Larger-scale and more comprehensive work with higher methodological quality and appropriate control applications are strongly recommended as yoga can have the ability to be applied as a fairly cost-effective supportive/adjunct therapy, may be used at least in part as a self-care treatment procedure, delivers lifelong skills, increases self-efficacy and promotes self-confidence with positive side effects. In the last years, a new view called positive psychology has been formed on mental healthcare. In this new research, mental health is not composed of reducing negative symptoms but also generating positive experiences as well. In this research, the effect of yoga on mental health but little has the focus physical condition Yoga's incorporation of meditation and breathing can help improve a person's mental well-being. "Regular yoga practice creates mental clarity and calmness; increases body awareness; relieves chronic stress patterns; relaxes the mind; centres attention; and sharpens concentration," says Dr Nevins.
... Clinicians held the view that if classes were not run with this approach, that individuals may be exposed to experiencing difficult emotions or trauma in an unhelpful manner. Previous research has provided commentary on yoga's adaptability, to accommodate the needs of different individuals [65]; Macy, Jones, Graham, & Roach, 2015). These findings are particularly significant given the high prevalence of trauma comorbidity with EDs [66] and the impact trauma can have on ED symptom severity and recovery [66]. ...
... Yoga e Saúde Mental: Além dos benefícios físicos, muitos estudos apontam para os benefícios mentais e emocionais da yoga. A pesquisa do "Journal of Psychiatric Practice" sugeriu que o yoga pode ajudar a reduzir os níveis de depressão, ansiedade e estressetodos esses problemas comuns após um AVC (Uebelacker, Epstein-Lubow, Gaudiano, Tremont, Battle, & Miller, 2010). ...
Article
Full-text available
Este artigo explora a aplicabilidade da NeuroYoga, uma abordagem integrativa que combina yoga e neurociência, na reabilitação do cérebro pós-Acidente Vascular Cerebral (AVC). Inicialmente serão abordadas as caractrísticas do AVC, e os princípios da neuroplasticidade, essenciais para o processo de recuperação. Em seguida, apresentaremos brevemente o conceito de NeuroYoga, discutindo sua importância emergente na promoção da neuroplasticidade e na regulação do estresse. Revistaremos estudos e casos existentes que exemplificam a eficiência do Yoga na reabilitação de AVC e estabeleceremos diretrizes práticas para a integração segura do Yoga na reabilitação dos pacientes. Finalmente, serão discutidas as lacunas nos estudos atuais e as possíveis direções para pesquisas futuras, afirmando o potencial inexplorado do NeuroYoga na melhoria da condição pós-AVC e na qualidade de vida do paciente. A orientação de um profissional qualificado para a prática de NeuroYoga é enfatizada para garantir a segurança do paciente.
... Another mechanism through which yoga might probably help depression is through correcting the dysregulation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis which is commonly observed in depression [65]. Depression is also associated with increased cortisol levels which decreases to normal levels after effective yoga treatment [66]. Studies have reported that yoga could reduce subjective stress and levels of both plasma cortisol levels & salivary cortisol [67]. ...
Article
Full-text available
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is one of the leading causes of disability affecting more than 340 million people and second largest contributor to global burden of disease. Chronic stress is a common risk factor and important contributor for MDD. Stress could be defined as the “perceived inability to cope”. Stressful life events are shown to provoke a sequence of psychological and physiological adjustments including nervous, endocrine and immune mechanisms. Stress can lead to elevation of a variety of inflammatory cytokines and stress hormones, can cause autonomic dysfunction and imbalance in neurotransmitters. Yoga can reduce depressive symptoms by alleviating stress. Studies have shown that yoga can reduce inflammation, maintain autonomic balance and also has a role in maintaining the neurotransmitters. It has role on hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, the peripheral nervous system including GABA, limbic system activity, inflammatory and endocrine responses. Yoga along with antidepressants can help in reducing the depressive symptoms in patient with MDD. Yoga is an ideal complementary and alternative therapy for mental health disorders.
... Clinicians held the view that if classes were not run with this approach, that individuals may be exposed to experiencing difficult emotions or trauma in an unhelpful manner. Previous research has provided commentary on yoga's adaptability, to accommodate the needs of different individuals [65]; Macy, Jones, Graham, & Roach, 2015). These findings are particularly significant given the high prevalence of trauma comorbidity with EDs [66] and the impact trauma can have on ED symptom severity and recovery [66]. ...
Article
Background: While research investigating the potential benefits of yoga for eating disorders (EDs) has expanded, a systematic approach examining how yoga has been implemented for this cohort has not yet been conducted. This research therefore aimed to synthesize the current understanding of how yoga has been implemented for individuals with EDs, with regards to the feasibility, acceptability, and safety of yoga for this cohort. Methods: This study utilised mapping review technology. The following electronic databases were searched within the month of September 2021 and December 2022: PsycINFO, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Embase. Articles that applied and documented the use of yoga for the EDs were selected. Results: The review identified ten unique studies. Details regarding the application, feasibility, acceptability, and safety of these yoga programs were extracted. This resulted in an evidence map or visual summary of how yoga has been applied for the EDs. Conclusion: While limited, the current literature suggests that yoga is a safe, acceptable, and feasible transdiagnostic intervention for EDs. These findings provide pragmatic support for safely applying yoga for the EDs into clinical practice to support ED recovery.
... The theoretical and empirical literature indicates that yoga is an effective adjunctive form of treatment for various mental health issues, particularly mood disorders and anxiety-based disorders (Shapiro et al., 2007;Streeter et al., 2010;Uebelacker et al., 2010). Empirical research has also found that participation in yoga and yoga-based activities (meditation, yogic breathing) are associated with impacting the neurotransmitters (chemical messenger in the brain) gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA) and dopamine (Kjaer et al., 2002;Streeter et al., 2010). ...
... (vi) Improved stress adaptation: yoga asanas and breathing exercises modulate stress-responsive brain regions, improve HPA axis activity, autonomic balance, and inflammation, and reduce the drive of bottom-up stress pathways. Yoga's regulation of emotions in terms of positive thoughts encourages positive coping, mediated by structures in the brain's prefrontal cortex, thereby reducing the top-down stress drives [25]. Yoga may be effective for the short-term relief of depression by enhancing the overall regulation of the stress response system, thereby relieving depression [26]. ...
Article
Full-text available
Objective This study aimed to examine the effect of exercise intervention for antenatal depression using meta-analysis and to propose the best exercise intervention program. Methods Review Manager 5.3 was used to analyze 17 papers with 2224 subjects by setting five moderators, including type, time, frequency, period, and format of exercise intervention, and a random-effects model was used to test for overall effect, heterogeneity, and publication bias. Results (1) The effect size of the exercise intervention on antenatal depression was d = -0.56, which reached a good effect and was statistically significant; b (2) The effect size of the exercise type on antenatal depression was Yoga and a combination of aerobic exercise in order of intervention; (3) the single intervention duration of 10–75 min all had a good effect on antenatal depression, and 30–60 min had the best effect; (4) the intervention frequency of 3 to 5 times/week had the greatest amount of intervention effect on maternal depression; (5) exercise lasting 6–10 weeks had a good intervention effect on antepartum depression, and the amount of effect decreased gradually with the extension of time; (6) In terms of exercise format, the amount of intervention effect on maternal depression was in the order of group exercise, individual + group exercise. Conclusions Exercise intervention can significantly alleviate antenatal depression symptoms. The best exercise program for exercise intervention for antenatal depression is: Yoga and a combination of aerobic exercise intervention effects are more prominent, and the intervention effect of Yoga is the best. The use of group exercise 3–5 times per week for 30–60 min for 6–10 weeks was more likely to achieve the desired intervention effect of improving antenatal depression.
... There are now hundreds of reviews (>300) of the effects of yoga on mental and physical health (e.g., Klatte et al., 2016;National Library of Medicine, National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2022;Wieland et al., 2021). In relation to mental disorders, the strongest evidence appears for the reduction of depressive symptoms (Bridges & Sharma, 2017;Meister & Becker, 2018;Uebelacker et al., 2010). For example, one meta-analysis focused on depressive symptoms but included participants with a range of diagnosable mental disorders (Brinsley et al., 2021). ...
Article
Full-text available
The high prevalence rates of mental disorders worldwide and the paucity of services constitute a mental health crisis. The vast majority of people in low-, middle-, and high-income countries do not receive any intervention for their symptoms of mental disorders, despite enormous advances in developing evidence-based psychosocial treatments and medications. The article proposes greater utilization of interventions in everyday life as an addition to the more traditional and commonly used mental-health interventions. The article delineates criteria to help identify what such interventions ought to include to permit accessibility, scalability, and reach to special populations. Physical activity, contact with nature, and yoga are examples to illustrate the class of everyday interventions that have evidence attesting to their impact on mental health and symptoms of psychopathology. The challenge is to integrate such interventions in mental health practices to better promote these at the population level and to monitor the impact. Many components of what is needed are in place but are not coordinated in an effective way to have widespread impact on mental health.
... Yoga consists of: asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), and dhyana (meditation) (Kirkwood et al., 2005) and also relaxation techniques. Studies have shown numerous health benefits of yoga for physical conditions such as cardiopulmonary and musculoskeletal function (Raub, 2002) , rheumatic diseases (Cramer, Lauche, Langhorst, & Dobos, 2013), arthritis (Haaz & Bartlett, 2011), also some psychological conditions including anxiety (Kirkwood et al., 2005), depression (Uebelacker et al., 2010) , stress (Chong, Tsunaka, Tsang, Chan, & Cheung, n.d.), ,sleep and quality-of-life in elderly . ...
Article
Full-text available
Background: Dementia is a syndrome-usually of a chronic or progressive nature-in which there is deterioration in cognitive function beyond what might be expected from normal ageing. Growing evidence have shown the beneficial role of yoga in enhancing cognition, physical and mental health in Dementia and on various ailments; however, a validated yoga module for Dementia in not available. This study aimed at developing an Integrated Yoga Module in patients with dementia. Methods: The Integrated Yoga Module was developed based on a thorough review of classical texts and previous evidence. The Integrated Yoga Module was assessed for content validity by a panel of 25 qualified and experienced yoga experts, who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. A total of 40 practices were included in the Integrated Yoga Module, and each practice was discussed and rated as (i) not essential, (ii) useful but not essential, and (iii) essential. Content validity ratio was calculated and analysed using Lawshe's formula. Results: Data analysis revealed that out of the 40 Integrated Yoga Module practices, 20 indicated significant content validity (cut-off value: 0.37, as calculated by applying Lawshe's formula for the Content validity ratio. Conclusions: This study suggests that the Integrated Yoga Module for Dementia is valid, with good content validity. However, future studies should determine the feasibility and effectiveness of the developed Integrated Yoga Module.
... After using that technique of meditation known as 'mindfulness', Kabat-Zinn [31] observed a reduction in the levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and panic. In turn, Ray [32], Woolery [33], and Uebecklacker [34] have demonstrated the beneficial effect of yoga exercises in reducing depression in patients who are diagnosed as having moderate depression or simply as those experiencing a depressed mood. Various studies of the effects of the use of yoga techniques on psychiatric clinic patients diagnosed by the test Profile of Mood States (POMS), have shown similar results in the reduction in depression and in the improvement of mood [35][36][37][38][39]. ...
Article
Full-text available
The inability of an individual to identify, assess, and manage emotions and levels of stress has adverse individual and societal consequences. Previous studies have shown that yoga-based interventions can successfully treat stress, anxiety, and depression, and can enhance emotional control. The aim of the current study was to assess the effect of a specific, intensive, yoga-based intervention, Dynamic Suryanamaskar, on the levels of perceived stress and emotional intelligence in Indian male school students. One hundred and five students with a median age of 17.15 ± 1.42 years were assessed. Practice took place over 12 weeks (n = 70 workouts). The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) questionnaire and the emotional intelligence (EQ) questionnaire, developed for the Indian population, were used to measure stress and emotional levels at the start and end of the study. The Solomon four-group design was used to ensure statistical reliability. The post-study univariate analysis of covariance ANOVA between groups (p < 0.001) and the t-test for independent samples (p < 0.05) indicated that, for those using the Dynamic Suryanamaskar protocol, there was a significant reduction in stress levels and a significant (p < 0.01) increase in the levels of emotional intelligence. This study thus provides further evidence of the benefits of the practice of Dynamic Suryanamaskar.
... There is some evidence from medical research that hatha yoga has therapeutic value in combating depression, although further research is needed to fully confirm this hypothesis(Uebelacker et al., 2010). ...
Article
Full-text available
The paper shows the situational transitions between the different identities of a teacher in hatha yoga practice: teacher, instructor, trainee, student, and researcher. The analysis is based on self-reports of my feelings about practicing and teaching hatha yoga. The explication is based on the self-observation of my lived experiences and the observation of interactions with hatha yoga session participants. The self emerges from the interactions or lack of interactions. Sometimes I am a participant, sometimes an instructor, and sometimes a student, even in the same yoga session. I analyze my self-reports using the first-person perspective and third-person mode. There are also descriptions of joint knowledge production with research collaborators who comment and give their insight by writing contemplative memos for me as the principal investigator and yoga teacher about my behaviors and identity.
... 9,10 Hatha yoga can be defined as a mind-body modality that combines physical practices, breathing techniques, and meditative strategies to enhance overall health and well-being. 11,12 Because of some studies' findings, the combination of relaxation strategies and Hatha yoga has shifted in autonomic balance along the continuum from the sympathetic to the parasympathetic branch of the ANS. 13,14 To that end, researchers have argued that yoga may promote parasympathetic activation that leads to reduced HR and BP and improved HRV, together with other metabolic and psychological benefits, including decreased levels of depression, 15 improved quality and quantity of sleep, 16 decreased risk for metabolic syndrome, 17 and weight reduction in the form of decreased visceral fat. ...
... Nonetheless, this isn't shocking given that examination concentrates on yoga as a remedial intercession have been led distinctly in the course of recent many years and are generally very few. Commonly, singular investigations on yoga for different conditions are little, low quality preliminaries with various examples for inclination [8]. What's more, there is generous heterogeneity in the populaces contemplated, yoga intercessions, length and recurrence of yoga practice, correlation gatherings, and result measures for some conditions (e.g., misery and torment). ...
Research
Full-text available
Stress and anxiety have been implicated as contributors to many chronic diseases and to decreased quality of life, even with pharmacologic treatment. Efforts are underway to find non-pharmacologic therapies to relieve stress and anxiety, and yoga is one option for which results are promising. The focus of this review is on the results of human trials assessing the role of yoga in improving the signs and symptoms of stress and anxiety. A significant decrease in stress and/or anxiety symptoms when a yoga regimen was implemented; however, many of the studies were also hindered by limitations, such as small study populations, lack of randomization, and lack of a control group. Biochemical and physiological markers of stress and anxiety, but yielded inconsistent support of yoga for relief of stress and anxiety. Evaluation of the current primary literature is suggestive of benefits of yoga in relieving stress and anxiety, but further investigation into this relationship using large, well-defined populations, adequate controls, randomization and long duration should be explored before recommending yoga as a treatment option.
... include an increase in the volume of gray matter, which processes sensory signals, as well as changes in the hippocampus, amygdala, and prefrontal cortex-which play a role in regulating stress reactivity, mood, and emotion-by reducing inflammatory biomarkers and responses that contribute to mental illness and increasing levels of GABA. 9,12,13,[15][16][17][18][19] The regulation of stress reactivity is particularly important for patients hospitalized with psychiatric illness because these patients experience considerable stress, and thus yoga is believed to be a good adjunctive therapy for them. 6, 12 Yoga appears to be beneficial and feasible, with few adverse effects. ...
Article
Background: Yoga-based treatments, which are recognized by the National Institutes of Health's National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health as a form of complementary and alternative medicine, have proven to be beneficial for people with various psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, and attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder, as well as schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. Purpose: The purpose of this evidence-based practice (EBP) project was to offer structured yoga sessions as a means of providing stress relief, promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, and improving quality of care among male and female adult patients (ages 18 years and older) hospitalized in a locked medical-psychiatric unit within an academic medical center for treatment of both acute medical and acute psychiatric conditions. Practice change and implementation: The Iowa Model and Implementation Strategies for EBP provided the guiding framework for this pilot project. Patients were offered once weekly, 30-to-60-minute yoga sessions for 12 weeks and were screened for their ability to participate by the nurse-yoga instructor and the interprofessional team. Using a Precision Implementation Approach, a data-driven selection of strategies from the implementation framework promoted the adoption and sustainability of the practice change, which were further advanced through interprofessional reinforcement of yoga practice and internal reporting. Results: Patient feedback was sought before and after yoga sessions. Thirty-nine patients responded to the pre-yoga questionnaire and 38 patients responded to the post-yoga questionnaire. Patients reported improved mood after yoga, with 23% (nine of 39) reporting feelings of calm and relaxation pre-yoga compared with 76% (29 of 38) post-yoga, and 41% (16 of 39) reporting feelings of anxiety pre-yoga compared with just 5% (two of 38) post-yoga. Conclusion: Yoga sessions provided by a nurse certified in yoga instruction improved patients' mood and sense of well-being. Instructional materials and videos were created to promote sustained use. The EBP of providing yoga sessions grew from a pilot program to a sustained change with more widespread use. In addition to patients hospitalized on medical-psychiatric units, the health system expanded the sessions to include inpatients on behavioral health units.
Article
Full-text available
The aim of the study was to find out the effect of Ashtanga Yoga practice on psycho-physical fitness variables on men. For the purpose of the study 20 men from Vishwanand Yoga Kendra, Pune, Maharashtra were randomly selected as subjects for the study, The Single Group Experimental research design was framed for this study. The selected sample underwent one month of AshtangaYoga practice five days in a week for one-hour duration. Pre test and post-test were conducted on the selected psycho-physical fitness variables of men such as Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Flexibility, Body Mass Index. The mean, standard deviation and ‘t’ test were calculated, and the level of significance was set at 0.05. The results showed the significant mean difference in Anxiety level, Depression level, Stress level, Flexibility, and Fat level, of the subjects after 8 weeks of Ashtanga Yoga practice. In conclusion, it appeared that the Ashtanga Yoga practice program resulted in improvement of psycho-physical fitness in men.
Article
Full-text available
This study examined whether sustained yoga-based intervention with secondary school students mitigated examination stress and built their academic confidence. A 2-year multicity repeated measures design was used. Secondary schoolers in select Asian and African cities were randomly allocated to the yoga education program (YEP) and the control group. Two scales were used to measure the outcomes: Test Anxiety Scale and Academic Behavioral Confidence Scale. The YEP was effective and specifically so for students from Asian cities, girls, middle class, Hindus and Buddhists, pupils of international schools, and whose mothers were their primary caregivers. Attendance of the YEP lessons and regular self-practice were significant predictors of the outcomes. The YEP can be incorporated in the curricular schedules of secondary school students with some variations based on cultural and ethnic belief systems, gender, and family backgrounds.
Chapter
This book is a detailed, evidence-based reference on the field of integrative geriatric medicine. It is intended for all healthcare providers and advocates who work with the geriatric population—in outpatient settings and nursing homes, assisted and independent living facilities, and senior community centers. In addition, it will provide valuable information for leaders and politicians who are involved with implementing policies and procedures for the care of elderly patients and who are looking for safer, less costly, and more patient-centered approaches. Integrative geriatrics is a new field of medicine that advocates for a whole-person, patient-centered, primarily non-pharmacological approach to medical care of the elderly. Most current geriatric practices overprescribe medications and procedures and underutilize non-pharmacological, low-cost, high-touch methods. Patients, however, often show reluctance toward these standard practices because they often involve invasive interventions. The practice of integrative geriatrics is rooted in lifestyle interventions, such as nutrition, movement therapies, and mind-body and spirituality approaches, that allow patients to take a different path to their health, one that utilizes pharmaceuticals and invasive procedures only when safer integrative approaches are not available or not effective.
Article
This longitudinal study explores the psychological benefits of yogic interventions on performance enhancement among Kho-Kho athletes at Vijayanagar Sri Krishna Devaraya University Ballari. The research focuses on the impact of sustained yogic practices on the psychological well-being and athletic performance of these athletes over an extended period. The study employs a rigorous methodology, Including pre- and post-intervention assessments, to measure psychological variables such as stress levels, concentration, and emotional resilience. Participants engage in a structured yogic program tailored to their specific needs, incorporating various yogic techniques such as asanas, pranayama, and meditation. Preliminary findings indicate a significant positive correlation between consistent yogic interventions and improvements in psychological aspects, contributing to enhanced performance on the Kho-Kho field. Participants report reduced stress, heightened concentration, and increased emotional stability, suggesting the potential of yogic practices as a holistic approach to athletic development. As the study progresses, a comprehensive understanding of the sustained impact of yogic interventions on these athletes emerges, providing valuable insights for sports science and coaching methodologies
Chapter
In Sanskrit, the term yoga is translated as “union” or “connection.” Yoga is said to unite body and mind and to be of value in alleviating psychological distress. It has been practiced for approximately 5000 years, and it has been estimated that about 16 million people practice it regularly. The various styles of yoga typically combine physical postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), and meditation or relaxation. There are numerous styles of yoga with Hatha yoga being the most practiced in the USA. Other styles include Iyengar, Ashtanga, Vini, Kundalini, and Bikram. Yoga facilitates an awareness of a connection between physiological and mental states. What one finds in those who are traumatized is a separation between the body and mental/emotional states. The traumatized individual unknowingly attempts to push away or separate themselves from the aversive experience of the trauma. The integration of body and mind that yoga facilitates works to reunite and reintegrate body and mental/emotional experience and thereby counters the separation induced by trauma. Empirical studies show that yoga practice can have a significant impact of anxiety and depression which are central components of both PTSD and secondary trauma. This chapter presents specific recommended alterations in traditional yoga practice for it to be particularly helpful in managing trauma. Several of the many forms of yoga are presented along with a case study in which yoga proved particularly effective in managing secondary trauma.
Article
Aging is characterized by fundamental cellular and molecular hallmarks that result in physiologic decline of most body systems. This may culminate in frailty, a state of decreased reserve. Because frailty is a state of multisystem dysregulation, multimodal interventions may be necessary to mitigate and prevent progression rather than interventions targeting a single system. Movement‐based mind–body therapies, such as tai chi and yoga, are promising multimodal strategies for frailty prevention and treatment given their inherent multicomponent nature. In this review, we summarize the links between hallmarks of aging and frailty and how tai chi and yoga may impact these hallmarks. We review trial evidence for the impact of tai chi and yoga on frailty in older populations and discuss opportunities for future research.
Article
Full-text available
The current study presents a randomized controlled 8-week trial of Bikram yoga, aerobic exercise, and wait-list in a sample of women with major depression.
Chapter
This Clinical Handbook for the Management of Mood Disorders will equip clinicians with the knowledge to refine their diagnostic skills and implement treatment plans for mood disorders based on the most up-to-date evidence on interventions that work. Covering the widest range of treatments and techniques, it provides clear guidance for the management of all types and subtypes of both minor and major depression. Chapters cover the latest and most innovative treatments, including use of ketamine, deep brain stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation, effective integration of pharmacological and psychotherapeutic approaches, as well as providing a thought-provoking look at the future research agenda and the potential for reliable biomarkers. This is the most comprehensive review of depression available today. Written and edited by leading experts mostly from Columbia University, this is an essential resource for anyone involved in the care and treatment of patients with mood disorders.
Chapter
This Clinical Handbook for the Management of Mood Disorders will equip clinicians with the knowledge to refine their diagnostic skills and implement treatment plans for mood disorders based on the most up-to-date evidence on interventions that work. Covering the widest range of treatments and techniques, it provides clear guidance for the management of all types and subtypes of both minor and major depression. Chapters cover the latest and most innovative treatments, including use of ketamine, deep brain stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation, effective integration of pharmacological and psychotherapeutic approaches, as well as providing a thought-provoking look at the future research agenda and the potential for reliable biomarkers. This is the most comprehensive review of depression available today. Written and edited by leading experts mostly from Columbia University, this is an essential resource for anyone involved in the care and treatment of patients with mood disorders.
Article
In all its paradigms, the ideal modern public health systems should have eradicated by now the spreading of the most fatal diseases, like cancer or cardiovascular disorders. Not only it has not, but these diseases are actually growing, showing the limits of the modern public health and the need of a paradigm shift. Using a narrative review, this paper aims to emphasize the limits of curative modern medicine and the benefits of yoga and meditation practices as prevention for the most common diseases, recognizing them as an important tool in public health systems. The relationship between yoga practice and the health status of individuals shows that they are strongly interdependent, being able to correct destructive behaviors and improve the quality of life. The spiritual practice of yoga is a way of restoring the “factory settings” by returning to essence, tradition, ancient knowledge and thus creating the mental and emotional environment for healing and thriving in human beings.
Article
Objectives: Exercise-induced musculoskeletal injuries/disorders and associated mental disorders are prevalent among athletes. The main objective of this review is to analyze the prospects of Yoga practices as a preventive and management strategy for musculoskeletal injuries/disorders and associated mental disorders often encountered in exercise and sports activities. Methods: A review of the literature was performed using electronic databases such as MEDLINE/PubMed and google scholar published between January 1991 and December 2021 which yielded 88 research articles. The keywords used were yoga OR exercise AND musculoskeletal injuries OR disorders, yoga OR exercise AND mental disorders, yoga AND sports injuries, yoga AND stress, yoga OR exercise AND oxidative stress, yoga OR exercise AND inflammation, yoga OR exercise AND diet. Results: The moderate and regular exercises are beneficial to health. However, high intensity and overtraining physical activities lead to immune suppression, oxidative stress, muscle damage/fatigue, coronary risk, psychiatric disorders and so on due to enormous strain on various physiological functions. Yoga seems to undermine these adverse activities through up-regulating the functions of the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) and down-regulating the activities of hypothalamohypophysial axis (HPA) which are conducive to healing, recovery, regeneration, reduction in stress, relaxation of mind, better cognitive functions, promotion of mental health, reduction in inflammation and oxidative stress, and so on. Conclusion: Literature suggests that Yoga should be integrated within exercise and sports sciences mainly to prevent & manage musculoskeletal injuries/disorders and associated mental disorders.
Article
Background: Yoga, a multicomponent mind-body practice, improves several domains of physical and psychological health and may affect frailty in older adults. Purpose: To evaluate the available trial evidence on the effect of yoga-based interventions on frailty in older adults. Data sources: MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central from their inception to 12 December 2022. Study selection: Randomized controlled trials evaluating the effect of yoga-based interventions, including at least 1 session of physical postures, on a validated frailty scale or single-item markers of frailty in adults aged 65 years or older. Data extraction: Two authors independently screened articles and extracted data; 1 author assessed risk of bias with review from a second author. Disagreements were resolved through consensus and as-needed input from a third author. Data synthesis: Thirty-three studies (n = 2384 participants) were identified in varied populations, including community dwellers, nursing home residents, and those with chronic disease. Yoga styles were primarily based on Hatha yoga and most often included Iyengar or chair-based methods. Single-item frailty markers included measures of gait speed, handgrip strength, balance, lower-extremity strength and endurance, and multicomponent physical performance measures; no studies included a validated definition of frailty. When compared with education or inactive control, there was moderate-certainty evidence that yoga improved gait speed and lower-extremity strength and endurance, low-certainty evidence for balance and multicomponent physical function measures, and very low-certainty evidence for handgrip strength. Limitation: Heterogeneity in study design and yoga style, small sample sizes, and reporting deficiencies leading to concerns for selection bias. Conclusion: Yoga may affect frailty markers that are associated with clinically meaningful outcomes in older adult populations but may not offer benefit over active interventions (for example, exercise). Primary funding source: None. (PROSPERO: CRD42020130303).
Chapter
Exercise is well known to be beneficial to physical health; however, increasing research indicates that physical exercise is also beneficial to brain health and may alleviate symptoms of mental disorders. This book, written by international experts, describes and explores the theory and practice of exercise intervention for different mental disorders across the life span. Drawing on evidence from basic neuroscience research, and enriched with findings from the latest clinical trials, the work provides clear descriptions of current practice and highlights ways to translate this knowledge into pragmatic advice for use in daily practice. The chapters cover a broad range of conditions including neurodevelopmental disorders, depression, anxiety, psychosis and late life neurocognitive disorders. This book is for mental health clinicians including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, nurses, as well as internists, paediatricians and geriatricians seeking a comprehensive and individualized approach to treatment.
Chapter
Exercise is well known to be beneficial to physical health; however, increasing research indicates that physical exercise is also beneficial to brain health and may alleviate symptoms of mental disorders. This book, written by international experts, describes and explores the theory and practice of exercise intervention for different mental disorders across the life span. Drawing on evidence from basic neuroscience research, and enriched with findings from the latest clinical trials, the work provides clear descriptions of current practice and highlights ways to translate this knowledge into pragmatic advice for use in daily practice. The chapters cover a broad range of conditions including neurodevelopmental disorders, depression, anxiety, psychosis and late life neurocognitive disorders. This book is for mental health clinicians including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, nurses, as well as internists, paediatricians and geriatricians seeking a comprehensive and individualized approach to treatment.
Chapter
Exercise is well known to be beneficial to physical health; however, increasing research indicates that physical exercise is also beneficial to brain health and may alleviate symptoms of mental disorders. This book, written by international experts, describes and explores the theory and practice of exercise intervention for different mental disorders across the life span. Drawing on evidence from basic neuroscience research, and enriched with findings from the latest clinical trials, the work provides clear descriptions of current practice and highlights ways to translate this knowledge into pragmatic advice for use in daily practice. The chapters cover a broad range of conditions including neurodevelopmental disorders, depression, anxiety, psychosis and late life neurocognitive disorders. This book is for mental health clinicians including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, nurses, as well as internists, paediatricians and geriatricians seeking a comprehensive and individualized approach to treatment.
Chapter
Exercise is well known to be beneficial to physical health; however, increasing research indicates that physical exercise is also beneficial to brain health and may alleviate symptoms of mental disorders. This book, written by international experts, describes and explores the theory and practice of exercise intervention for different mental disorders across the life span. Drawing on evidence from basic neuroscience research, and enriched with findings from the latest clinical trials, the work provides clear descriptions of current practice and highlights ways to translate this knowledge into pragmatic advice for use in daily practice. The chapters cover a broad range of conditions including neurodevelopmental disorders, depression, anxiety, psychosis and late life neurocognitive disorders. This book is for mental health clinicians including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, nurses, as well as internists, paediatricians and geriatricians seeking a comprehensive and individualized approach to treatment.
Chapter
Exercise is well known to be beneficial to physical health; however, increasing research indicates that physical exercise is also beneficial to brain health and may alleviate symptoms of mental disorders. This book, written by international experts, describes and explores the theory and practice of exercise intervention for different mental disorders across the life span. Drawing on evidence from basic neuroscience research, and enriched with findings from the latest clinical trials, the work provides clear descriptions of current practice and highlights ways to translate this knowledge into pragmatic advice for use in daily practice. The chapters cover a broad range of conditions including neurodevelopmental disorders, depression, anxiety, psychosis and late life neurocognitive disorders. This book is for mental health clinicians including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, nurses, as well as internists, paediatricians and geriatricians seeking a comprehensive and individualized approach to treatment.
Chapter
Exercise is well known to be beneficial to physical health; however, increasing research indicates that physical exercise is also beneficial to brain health and may alleviate symptoms of mental disorders. This book, written by international experts, describes and explores the theory and practice of exercise intervention for different mental disorders across the life span. Drawing on evidence from basic neuroscience research, and enriched with findings from the latest clinical trials, the work provides clear descriptions of current practice and highlights ways to translate this knowledge into pragmatic advice for use in daily practice. The chapters cover a broad range of conditions including neurodevelopmental disorders, depression, anxiety, psychosis and late life neurocognitive disorders. This book is for mental health clinicians including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, nurses, as well as internists, paediatricians and geriatricians seeking a comprehensive and individualized approach to treatment.
Chapter
Exercise is well known to be beneficial to physical health; however, increasing research indicates that physical exercise is also beneficial to brain health and may alleviate symptoms of mental disorders. This book, written by international experts, describes and explores the theory and practice of exercise intervention for different mental disorders across the life span. Drawing on evidence from basic neuroscience research, and enriched with findings from the latest clinical trials, the work provides clear descriptions of current practice and highlights ways to translate this knowledge into pragmatic advice for use in daily practice. The chapters cover a broad range of conditions including neurodevelopmental disorders, depression, anxiety, psychosis and late life neurocognitive disorders. This book is for mental health clinicians including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, nurses, as well as internists, paediatricians and geriatricians seeking a comprehensive and individualized approach to treatment.
Chapter
Exercise is well known to be beneficial to physical health; however, increasing research indicates that physical exercise is also beneficial to brain health and may alleviate symptoms of mental disorders. This book, written by international experts, describes and explores the theory and practice of exercise intervention for different mental disorders across the life span. Drawing on evidence from basic neuroscience research, and enriched with findings from the latest clinical trials, the work provides clear descriptions of current practice and highlights ways to translate this knowledge into pragmatic advice for use in daily practice. The chapters cover a broad range of conditions including neurodevelopmental disorders, depression, anxiety, psychosis and late life neurocognitive disorders. This book is for mental health clinicians including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, nurses, as well as internists, paediatricians and geriatricians seeking a comprehensive and individualized approach to treatment.
Research
Full-text available
The present paper highlights that girls are having good mental health rather than boys' students. There is a significant difference between pre-test and post-test of senior secondary students. It shows that post-test students are having good mental health rather than pre-test students. Mean scores of boys and students is 35.06 whereas mean score of girls students is 35.14. So mean's difference is trustworthy. The present study was conducted to find out the effect of yoga on mental health of senior secondary students. For this purpose 100 students sample was taken from Sonepat district. "YOGA ATTITUDE SCALE" was developed by Dr. Mahesh Kumar Mucchal will be used to collect data. The present study has its implications for teachers, parents, administrators or policy makers and government.
Article
Full-text available
Bereavement, isolation, loss of income and irrational fears are triggering mental health conditions or exacerbating existing ones. People from different segments of population had been facing increased levels of alcohol and drug use, insomnia, and anxiety during tough times of Covid-19.Meanwhile, COVID-19 itself also led to neurological and mental complications, such as delirium, agitation, and stroke.At that time,the sportspersons also did not remain untouched as The Coronavirus experience (CE) has exhibited a highly challenging period for sport performers (e.g., athletes, coaches, referees), with potential effects on their lives and career trajectories. The COVID-19 pandemic is now a major global health issue, affecting world population and high-performance athlete too. Since these heroes bring laurels for our country and place us at high pedestal of Globe, the need of an hour was to deliberate upon their well being. Taking this perspective in mind, the present study aimed to investigate the role of Yoga in enhancing mental health of sportspersons .A total sample of 50 male and 50 female sportspersons, belonging to an age group of 22-26 years, who are regularly going for running to meet competition at state level were selected on random basis fromRohtak and Jind city. All their physiologicalparameters i.e., Heart rate,Blood pressure, GSR,BMI was assessed. Mental health was measured operationally by Psychological WellBeingScale and Oxford Happiness Scale.A pretest and posttest design was used to study the role of Yoga on the physical as well mental health. Twenty days training module loaded with some yogic exercise encompassing Breathing exercise as well mindfulness showed remarkable changes in physical and mental health parameters of the above sample during time period of lockdown as exhibited by significant t-values .In addition ,female sports persons had effective yogic impact than their male sports contemporaries.
Chapter
This chapter is aimed to advance our understanding of lifestyle disorders which are one of the major health challenges in the post-modern era. Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) are often characterized by Dyslipidemia which is common to diseases like Stroke and Myocardial infarction. Sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity are one of the major reasons causing dyslipidemia. Several diseases, including those of cardiovascular origin, such as arterial dyslipidemia, coronary heart disease, hypertension, stroke, congestive heart failure, result from dyslipidemia which is the common denominator. In dyslipidemia, the lipid levels are altered and are often characterized as an epidemic in both developing as well as the developed countries which increases stroke propensity. Health risks that lead to cardiovascular diseases and stroke involve huge economic burden. In such a scenario, Yoga is often proposed as an easy, effective, and alternative approach that has the potential to reduce health risks. It may also reduce the risk of dyslipidemia and other co-morbid diseases like stroke and cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, physical activities like Yoga, combined with the associated reduction in psychological stress, may be the preferred intervention in the management of NCDs, especially cardiovascular diseases. Although physical activity improves the health of individuals and enables prevention from diseases, as per the American Heart Association, the lifestyle changes must also include a healthy diet and exercise, which can favorably alter the cholesterol levels in adults.
Article
Full-text available
This study evaluated mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), a group intervention designed to train recovered recurrently depressed patients to disengage from dysphoria-activated depressogenic thinking that may mediate relapse/recurrence. Recovered recurrently depressed patients (n = 145) were randomized to continue with treatment as usual or, in addition, to receive MBCT. Relapse/recurrence to major depression was assessed over a 60-week study period. For patients with 3 or more previous episodes of depression (77% of the sample), MBCT significantly reduced risk of relapse/recurrence. For patients with only 2 previous episodes, MBCT did not reduce relapse/recurrence. MBCT offers a promising cost-efficient psychological approach to preventing relapse/recurrence in recovered recurrently depressed patients.
Article
Full-text available
Patients in the National Institute of Mental Health Treatment of Depression Collaborative Research Program (TDCRP) were administered at intake with the Dysfunctional Attitude Scale (DAS; A. N. Weissman & A. T. Beck, 1978). Factor analyses of the DAS in the TDCRP data as well as in several independent samples reveal two primary factors: an interpersonal factor, Need for Approval, and a self-critical factor, Perfectionism. This study explored the hypotheses that these factors, assessed prior to treatment, would have differential interactions with the two forms of psychotherapy evaluated in the TDCRP as well as differential relationships to various outcome measures (depression, clinical functioning, and social adjustment). DAS Perfectionism had consistently significant negative relationships with all the outcome measures in all four treatment conditions. Contrary to expectations, however, there were no significant interactions between the two DAS factors and the four types of brief treatment (cognitive–behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, imipramine, and placebo).
Article
Full-text available
We examined the relationship between ruminative and distracting styles of responding to depressed mood and the duration of mood. Seventy-nine subjects kept accounts of their moods and responses to their moods for 30 consecutive days. The majority of subjects (83%) showed consistent styles of responding to depressed mood. Regression analyses suggested that the more ruminative responses subjects engaged in, the longer their periods of depressed mood, even after taking into account the initial severity of the mood. In addition, women were more likely than men to have a ruminative response style and on some measures to have more severe and long-lasting periods of depression.
Article
Full-text available
Preparation for the role of therapist can occur on both professional and personal levels. Research has found that therapists are at risk for occupationally related psychological problems. It follows that self-care may be a useful complement to the professional training of future therapists. The present study examined the effects of one approach to self-care, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), for therapists in training. Using a prospective, cohort-controlled design, the study found participants in the MBSR program reported significant declines in stress, negative affect, rumination, state and trait anxiety, and significant increases in positive affect and self-compassion. Further, MBSR participation was associated with increases in mindfulness, and this enhancement was related to several of the beneficial effects of MBSR participation. Discussion highlights the potential for future research addressing the mental health needs of therapists and therapist trainees. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)
Article
Full-text available
This paper focuses on several aspects of the relationship between sleep and depression, with particular attention to objective factors and subjective perceptions. It does not address the effect that antidepressants have on sleep, nor does it explore the wider implications of the types and course of depression, age, or other psychiatric conditions. “Normal sleep” is explored, examining typical sleep architecture in individuals without sleep disorders, psychiatric conditions or physical illness. Sleep disorders are reviewed and examined to present the nature of the disturbance and the role that they may play in depression, with particular attention paid to insomnia. Studies have identified a sub-group of insomnia patients (highly distressed poor sleepers), who appear to be less satisfied with their sleep quality than “low distressed poor sleepers”, even though they did not differ on sleep timing perceptions. Recent work has shown that depressed individuals to be less satisfied with sleep quality than healthy controls, even though they did not differ on sleep timing perceptions. The evidence presented here supports the view that subjective sleep perceptions play an important role in depression. Poor subjective perceptions of sleep in depression may be associated with faulty cognitions. This has been found extensively in insomnia, but is under-researched in depression.
Article
Full-text available
There has been substantial interest in mindfulness as an approach to reduce cognitive vulnerability to stress and emotional distress in recent years. However, thus far mindfulness has not been defined operationally. This paper describes the results of recent meetings held to establish a consensus on mindfulness and to develop conjointly a testable operational definition. We propose a two-component model of mindfulness and specify each component in terms of specific behaviors, experiential manifestations, and implicated psychological processes. We then address issues regarding temporal stability and situational specificity and speculate on the conceptual and operational distinctiveness of mindfulness. We conclude this paper by discussing implications for instrument development and briefly describing our own approach to measurement.
Article
Full-text available
Bishop et al. (this issue) propose an operational definition of mindfulness developed by a recent consensus panel. The group provides a solid empirical framework from which to develop measures of mindfulness, and they propose an exciting research agenda. We describe measurement development work from our research group that provides initial support for the proposed consensus definition and that examines mindfulness in relation to emotion regulation variables. We extend the discussion by describing how mindfulness can enhance the stabilizing and destabilizing aspects of therapeutic change, and we illustrate this in the context of our treatment program for depression.
Article
Full-text available
The progressively rigorous methodological requirements of conducting clinical trials of behavioral treatments has placed a large burden on individual investigators, as treatment manuals, methods of evaluating treatment quality and fidelity, and persuasive evidence of the treatment's promise are now virtual requirements of receiving support for conducting a clinical trial of a new or adapted treatment. A Stage Model of Behavioral Therapies research, by articulating the progressive stages of development and evaluation for behavioral treatments, recognizes the scientific merit and need for support for treatment development and initial evaluation designated as stage I. This article describes the conduct of stage I research, including issues addressed in stage I research, major design decisions confronted by investigators, the close relationship of stage I to stage II research and proposes a time line for stage I research.
Article
Full-text available
The stage model of therapy research focuses on the development of treatment from pilot work, through randomized controlled clinical trials, to tests in clinic settings. A goal of the model is to develop effective treatments that can be used clinically. The present comments begin with a similar goal but emphasize the importance of a broader agenda designed to understand therapy. A central thesis is that developing effective treatments depends heavily on investigations that address critical scientific questions; particularly, what are the mechanisms through which therapy operates and under what conditions is therapy likely to be effective and why? The comments argue for a portfolio of research that addresses a broader range of questions and encompasses more diverse methods of evaluating treatment. Breadth and diversity are not ends in themselves but will be essential to obtain the requisite knowledge to effect optimal changes in clinical applications of treatment.
Article
Full-text available
This study describes the effects of an 8-week course in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR; J. Kabat-Zinn, 1982, 1990) on affective symptoms (depression and anxiety), dysfunctional attitudes, and rumination. Given the focus of mindfulness meditation (MM) in modifying cognitive processes, it was hypothesized that the primary change in MM practice involves reductions in ruminative tendencies. We studied a sample of individuals with lifetime mood disorders who were assessed prior to and upon completion of an MBSR course. We also compared a waitlist sample matched with a subset of the MBSR completers. Overall, the results suggest that MM practice primarily leads to decreases in ruminative thinking, even after controlling for reductions in affective symptoms and dysfunctional beliefs.
Article
Full-text available
Stress has been implicated in both somatic and mental disorders. The mechanisms by which stress leads to poor health are largely unknown. However, studies in animals suggest that chronic stress causes high basal cortisol and low cortisol response to acute stressors and that such changes may contribute to disease. Previous studies of the Transcendental Mediation® (TM) technique as a possible means of countering effects of stress have reported altered levels of several hormones both during the practice and longitudinally after regular practice of this technique. In this prospective, random assignment study, changes in baseline levels and acute responses to laboratory stressors were examined for four hormones—cortisol, growth hormone, thyroid-stimulating hormone and testosterone—before and after 4 months of either the TM technique or a stress education control condition. At pre- and post-test, blood was withdrawn continuously through an indwelling catheter, and plasma or serum samples were frozen for later analysis by radioimmunoassay. The results showed significantly different changes for the two groups, or trends toward significance, for each hormone over the 4 months. In the TM group, but not in the controls, basal cortisol level and average cortisol across the stress session decreased from pre- to post-test. Cortisol responsiveness to stressors, however, increased in the TM group compared to controls. The baselines and/or stress responsiveness for TSH and GH changed in opposite directions for the groups, as did the testosterone baseline. Overall, the cortisol and testosterone results appear to support previous data suggesting that repeated practice of the TM technique reverses effects of chronic stress significant for health. The observed group difference in the change of GH regulation may derive from the cortisol differences, while the TSH results are not related easily to earlier findings on the effects of chronic stress.
Article
Full-text available
Cross-sectional studies have reported an association between major depressive episode (MDE) and obesity. The objective of this longitudinal analysis was to determine whether MDE increase the risk of becoming obese over a 10-year period. We used data from the Canadian National Population Health Survey (NPHS), a longitudinal study of a representative cohort of household residents in Canada. The incidence of obesity, defined as a body mass index (BMI) of > or =30, was evaluated in respondents who were 18 years or older at the time of a baseline interview in 1994. MDE was assessed using a brief diagnostic instrument. The risk of obesity was not elevated in association with MDE, either in unadjusted or covariate-adjusted analyses. The strongest predictor of obesity was a BMI in the overweight (but not obese) range. Effects were also seen for (younger) age, (female) sex, a sedentary activity pattern, low income and exposure to antidepressant medications. Unexpectedly, significant effects were seen for serotonin-reuptake-inhibiting antidepressants and venlafaxine, but neither for tricyclic antidepressants nor antipsychotic medications. MDE does not appear to increase the risk of obesity. The cross-sectional associations that have been reported, albeit inconsistently, in the literature probably represent an effect of obesity on MDE risk. Pharmacologic treatment with antidepressants may be associated with an increased risk of obesity, and strategies to offset this risk may be useful in clinical practice.
Article
Full-text available
Objectives. This study compares the effects of an integrated yoga program with brief supportive therapy in breast cancer outpatients undergoing adjuvant radiotherapy at a cancer center. Eighty-eight stage II and III breast cancer outpatients are randomly assigned to receive yoga (n = 44) or brief supportive therapy (n = 44) prior to radiotherapy treatment. Assessments include diurnal salivary cortisol levels 3 days before and after radiotherapy and self-ratings of anxiety, depression, and stress collected before and after 6 weeks of radiotherapy. Analysis of covariance reveals significant decreases in anxiety (P < .001), depression (P = .002), perceived stress (P < .001), 6 a.m. salivary cortisol (P = .009), and pooled mean cortisol (P = .03) in the yoga group compared with controls. There is a significant positive correlation between morning salivary cortisol level and anxiety and depression. Yoga might have a role in managing self-reported psychological distress and modulating circadian patterns of stress hormones in early breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant radiotherapy.
Article
Full-text available
Although complete nonresponse in depression treatment is considered to be a major problem in clinical practice, research in this area is very limited. The objective of this preliminary study was to determine the frequency and predictors of complete nonresponse in different treatments for depression. Post hoc analysis of the pooled data of 3 consecutive randomized controlled trials of outpatient depression treatment was conducted. The subjects were 313 patients with major depressive disorder and 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D-17) scores between 14 and 25 who were treated for 6 months with either pharmacotherapy, short-term psychodynamic supportive psychotherapy or combined therapy. Complete nonresponse was defined as a <25% response according to the HAM-D-17. Sociodemographic factors, depression features and adherence were investigated as predictors in a multivariate stepwise logistic regression analysis. Overall, nonresponse occurred in 34% of the patients. In pharmacotherapy this was 46%, in psychotherapy 39% and in combined therapy 28%. The severity of somatic symptoms was associated with nonresponse in both combined therapy and psychotherapy. No predictive factors were found in the case of pharmacotherapy. In psychotherapy, nonresponse was related to age above 40 years, chronic depression and nonadherence by the patient. In the case of combined therapy, younger age, previous use of an antidepressant and having a previous depressive episode were associated with nonresponse. Easily measurable patient characteristics may help to identify patients at risk of complete nonresponse to treatment. It is suggested that predictors may differ across treatment modalities. However, head-to-head comparisons are required before it can be recommended to take this into account when selecting the most appropriate treatment for individual depressed patients.
Article
Full-text available
Two clinical trials have been conducted in a sample of depressed patients to determine whether the addition of an aerobic exercise programme to their usual treatment improved outcome after 12 weeks. In the first trial, an aerobic exercise group had a superior outcome compared with a control group in terms of trait anxiety and a standard psychiatric interview. A second trial was then conducted to compare an aerobic exercise programme with low intensity exercise. Both groups showed improvement but there were no significant differences between the groups. In neither trial was there any correlation between the extent of change in the subjects' physical fitness due to aerobic exercise and the extent of the improvement of psychiatric scores.
Book
Gain a thorough understanding of the entire research process – developing ideas, selecting methods, analyzing and communicating results – in this fully revised and updated textbook. The sixth edition comprises the latest developments in the field, including the use of technology and web-based methods to conduct studies, the role of robots and artificial intelligence in designing and evaluating research, and the importance of diversity in research to inform results that reflect the society we live in. Designed to inspire the development of future research processes, this is the perfect textbook for graduate students and professionals in research methods and research design in clinical psychology.
Book
Research Design in Clinical Psychology helps students to achieve a thorough understanding of the entire research process – developing the idea, selecting methods, analyzing the results, and preparing the written scientific report. Drawing examples from clinical research, health, and medicine, author Alan E. Kazdin offers detailed coverage of experimental design, assessment, data evaluation and interpretation, case-control and cohort designs, and qualitative research methods. In addition to new pedagogical tools that guide students through the text, the Fifth Edition offers expanded coverage of key topic areas, such as cultural issues, scientific integrity, and recent changes in the publication and communication of research.
Article
Posted 06/02/2000. This reprinted article originally appeared in (Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 1996, Vol 64[2], 295–304). (The following abstract of the original article appeared in record 1996-00433-008.) The purpose of this study was to provide an experimental test of the theory of change put forth by A. T. Beck, A. J. Rush, B. E Shaw, and G. Emery ( 1979 ) to explain the efficacy of cognitive–behavioral therapy (CT) for depression. The comparison involved randomly assigning 150 outpatients with major depression to a treatment focused exclusively on the behavioral activation (BA) component of CT, a treatment that included both BA and the teaching of skills to modify automatic thoughts (AT), but excluding the components of CT focused on core schema, or the full CT treatment. Four experienced cognitive therapists conducted all treatments. Despite excellent adherence to treatment protocols by the therapists, a clear bias favoring CT, and the competent performance of CT, there was no evidence that the complete treatment produced better outcomes, at either the termination of acute treatment or the 6-month follow-up, than either component treatment. Furthermore, both BA and AT treatments were just as effective as CT at altering negative thinking as well as dysfunctional attributional styles. Finally, attributional style was highly predictive of both short- and long-term outcomes in the BA condition, but not in the CT condition.
Article
The limitations of current methods of treatment for dysthymic disorder justify experimentation with new alternatives. Techniques of yoga hold promise. A brief package; Sudarshan Kriya exerts demonstrable effects on brain functioning and may have effects akin to ECT in depression. Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY) was used to treat 46 hospital out-patients (22 males) of dysthymic disorder. Over 3 months, they had to practice it everyday for half-an hour and avoid any medication. They were assessed initially, at one and 3 months on interviews video-rated and self-report scales. In a subsample of mates (n=12), plasma prolactin and cortisol levels were obtained before and after the first full SKY session. 37 patients completed the treatment through three months and 25 (68%) of them remitted. A higher proportion of those practising SKY regularly remitted. Significant elevation of plasma prolactin, but not cortisol occurred after the first SKY session. SKY has demonstrable biological effects and is therapeutic in dysthymic disorder.
Article
Errors in Byline, Author Affiliations, and Acknowledgment. In the Original Article titled “Prevalence, Severity, and Comorbidity of 12-Month DSM-IV Disorders in the National Comorbidity Survey Replication,” published in the June issue of the ARCHIVES (2005;62:617-627), an author’s name was inadvertently omitted from the byline on page 617. The byline should have appeared as follows: “Ronald C. Kessler, PhD; Wai Tat Chiu, AM; Olga Demler, MA, MS; Kathleen R. Merikangas, PhD; Ellen E. Walters, MS.” Also on that page, the affiliations paragraph should have appeared as follows: Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass (Drs Kessler, Chiu, Demler, and Walters); Section on Developmental Genetic Epidemiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, Md (Dr Merikangas). On page 626, the acknowledgment paragraph should have appeared as follows: We thank Jerry Garcia, BA, Sara Belopavlovich, BA, Eric Bourke, BA, and Todd Strauss, MAT, for assistance with manuscript preparation and the staff of the WMH Data Collection and Data Analysis Coordination Centres for assistance with instrumentation, fieldwork, and consultation on the data analysis. We appreciate the helpful comments of William Eaton, PhD, Michael Von Korff, ScD, and Hans-Ulrich Wittchen, PhD, on earlier manuscripts. Online versions of this article on the Archives of General Psychiatry Web site were corrected on June 10, 2005.
Article
The stage model of therapy research focuser on the development of treatment from pilot work, through randomized controlled clinical trials, to tests in clinic settings. A goal of the model is to develop effective treatments that can be used clinically. The present comments begin with a similar goal but emphasize the importance of a broader agenda designed to understand therapy, A central thesis ir that developing effective treatments depends heavily on investigations that address critical scientific questions; particularly, what are the mechanisms through which therapy operates and under what conditions is therapy likely to be effective and why? The comments argue for a portfolio of research that addresses a broader range of questions and encompasses more diverse methods of evaluating treatment. Breadth and diversity are not ends in themselves but will be essential to obtain the requisite knowledge to effect optimal changer in clinical applications of treatment.
Article
The progressively rigorous methodological requirements of conducting clinical trials of behavioral treatments has placed a large burden on individual investigators, as treatment manuals, methods of evaluating treatment quality and fidelity, and persuasive evidence of the treatment's promise are now virtual requirements of receiving support for conducting a clinical trial of a new or adapted treatment. A Stage Model of Behavioral Therapies research, by articulating the progressive stager of development and evaluation for behavioral treatments, recognizer the scientific merit and need for support for treatment development and initial evaluation designated as stage 1, This article describer the conduct of stage 1 research, including issues addressed in stage 1 research, major design decisions confronted by investigators, the close relationship of stage 1 to stage If research and proposes a time line for stage 1 research.
Article
Background: Chronic low back pain is a common problem that has only modestly effective treatment options. Objective: To determine whether yoga is more effective than conventional therapeutic exercise or a self-care book for patients with chronic low back pain. Design: Randomized, controlled trial. Setting: A nonprofit, integrated health care system. Patients: 101 adults with chronic low back pain. Intervention: 12-week sessions of yoga or conventional therapeutic exercise classes or a self-care book. Measurements: Primary outcomes were back-related functional status (modified 24-point Roland Disability Scale) and bothersomeness of pain (11-point numerical scale). The primary time point was 12 weeks. Clinically significant change was considered to be 2.5 points on the functional status scale and 1.5 points on the bothersomeness scale. Secondary outcomes were days of restricted activity, general health status, and medication use. Results: After adjustment for baseline values, back-related function in the yoga group was superior to the book and exercise groups at 12 weeks (yoga vs. book: mean difference, -3.4 [95% Cl, -5.1 to-1.6] [P< 0.001]; yoga vs. exercise: mean difference, -1.8 [Cl, -3.5 to - 0.1] [P= 0.034]). No significant differences in symptom bothersomeness were found between any 2 groups at 12 weeks; at 26 weeks, the yoga group was superior to the book group with respect to this measure (mean difference, -2.2 [Cl, -3.2 to - 1.2]; P < 0.001). At 26 weeks, back-related function in the yoga group was superior to the book group (mean difference, -3.6 [Cl, -5.4 to - 1.8]; P< 0.001). Limitations: Participants in this study were followed for only 26 weeks after randomization. Only 1 instructor delivered each intervention. Conclusions: Yoga was more effective than a self-care book for improving function and reducing chronic low back pain, and the benefits persisted for at least several months.
Article
The difficulties inherent in obtaining consistent and adequate diagnoses for the purposes of research and therapy have been pointed out by a number of authors. Pasamanick12 in a recent article viewed the low interclinician agreement on diagnosis as an indictment of the present state of psychiatry and called for "the development of objective, measurable and verifiable criteria of classification based not on personal or parochial considerations, but on behavioral and other objectively measurable manifestations."Attempts by other investigators to subject clinical observations and judgments to objective measurement have resulted in a wide variety of psychiatric rating scales.4,15 These have been well summarized in a review article by Lorr11 on "Rating Scales and Check Lists for the Evaluation of Psychopathology." In the area of psychological testing, a variety of paper-and-pencil tests have been devised for the purpose of measuring specific
Book
An ACT Approach Chapter 1. What is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy? Steven C. Hayes, Kirk D. Strosahl, Kara Bunting, Michael Twohig, and Kelly G. Wilson Chapter 2. An ACT Primer: Core Therapy Processes, Intervention Strategies, and Therapist Competencies. Kirk D. Strosahl, Steven C. Hayes, Kelly G. Wilson and Elizabeth V. Gifford Chapter 3. ACT Case Formulation. Steven C. Hayes, Kirk D. Strosahl, Jayson Luoma, Alethea A. Smith, and Kelly G. Wilson ACT with Behavior Problems Chapter 4. ACT with Affective Disorders. Robert D. Zettle Chapter 5. ACT with Anxiety Disorders. Susan M. Orsillo, Lizabeth Roemer, Jennifer Block-Lerner, Chad LeJeune, and James D. Herbert Chapter 6. ACT with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. Alethea A. Smith and Victoria M. Follette Chapter 7. ACT for Substance Abuse and Dependence. Kelly G. Wilson and Michelle R. Byrd Chapter 8. ACT with the Seriously Mentally Ill. Patricia Bach Chapter 9. ACT with the Multi-Problem Patient. Kirk D. Strosahl ACT with Special Populations, Settings, and Methods Chapter 10. ACT with Children, Adolescents, and their Parents. Amy R. Murrell, Lisa W. Coyne, & Kelly G. Wilson Chapter 11. ACT for Stress. Frank Bond. Chapter 12. ACT in Medical Settings. Patricia Robinson, Jennifer Gregg, JoAnne Dahl, & Tobias Lundgren Chapter 13. ACT with Chronic Pain Patients. Patricia Robinson, Rikard K. Wicksell, Gunnar L. Olsson Chapter 14. ACT in Group Format. Robyn D. Walser and Jacqueline Pistorello
Article
Background: Many patients with unipolar depression experience a return of depressive symptoms while taking a constant maintenance dose of an antidepressant. Method: All cited studies were found using computerized literature searches of the MEDLINE database since 1966. Results: The return of depressive symptoms during maintenance antidepressant treatment has occurred in 9% to 57% of patients in published trials. Possible explanations include loss of place bo effect, pharmacologic tolerance, increase in disease severity, change in disease pathogenesis, the accumulation of a detrimental metabolite, unrecognized rapid cycling, and prophylactic inefficacy. Conclusion: Although several strategies have been proposed to overcome the loss of antidepressant efficacy, double-blind controlled studies are needed to ascertain the optimal strategy for this perplexing clinical problem.
Article
Patients' preferences in the treatment of depression are important in clinical practice and in research. Antidepressant medication is often prescribed, but adherence is low. This may be caused by patients preferring psychotherapy, which is often not available in primary care. In randomized clinical trials, patients' preferences may affect the external validity. The aim of this article is to study patients' preferences regarding psychotherapy and antidepressant medication and the impact of these preferences on treatment outcome. A systematic review of the literature was performed. The majority of patients preferred psychotherapy in all available studies. Antidepressants were often regarded as addictive and psychotherapy was assumed to solve the cause of depression. Discussing and supporting preferences as part of a quality improvement program of depression care, resulted in more patients receiving the treatment that was most suitable to them. In two patient-preference trials, preferences did not influence treatment outcome. It can be concluded that a substantial percentage of well-informed patients prefer psychotherapy. Patients with strong preferences, mostly for psychotherapy, are likely not to enter antidepressant treatment or randomized clinical trials if their preferences are not supported
Article
Objectives: To examine the antidepressant effects of exercise, and two previously proposed psychological mechanisms for this effect: self-efficacy and distraction.Method: A quasi-experimental design was utilized with participants (N=19) self-selecting to either a control or a 9-week exercise group. Dependent variables included severity of depression, coping self-efficacy, rumination, and distraction and were measured at study entry, 3 and 9 weeks later.Results: Exercisers reported lower depression scores than controls at Week 3 [9.3 (4.8) vs. 24.7 (12.0), p
Article
Examined the effectiveness of Shavasana (a type of yoga exercise) as a therapeutic technique to alleviate depression. 50 female university students were diagnosed with severe depression; 25 were subjected to 30 sessions of Shavasana, and 25 served as controls. Results reveal that (1) Shavasana was an effective technique for alleviating depression and (2) continuation of the treatment for a longer period resulted in a significantly increased positive change in the Ss. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)
Article
The purpose of this book is to describe and explain methodology and research design in clinical psychology. The book elaborates the methods of conducting research and the broad range of practices, procedures, and designs for developing a sound knowledge base. It also focuses on the underpinnings, rationale, and purposes of these practices. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)
Article
Previously, authors have reviewed the evidence pertaining to a wide range of neurochemical, neuroendocrine, neurophysiological, and structural correlates of depression. In this chapter, the authors emphasize research published since 1994 and focus on a conceptual model that posits that many aspects of depression can be understood in terms of dysregulation of CNS responses to stress. The authors examine the impact of various mediating and moderating factors, including genetics, age, sex, and developmental history. They also consider relationships between neurobiological findings and the clinical phenomenology, longitudinal course, and treatment of the depressive disorders. Notable new developments include research on the intracellular processes that link receptors and second messengers to gene activity and the process of neurogenesis, the brain's capacity to create new neurons. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)
Article
Evaluated the efficacy of E. Jacobson's (1943) progressive relaxation technique (JPR) and A. Broota's (in press) relaxation technique (BRT) with 30 depressed outpatients (aged 19–48 yrs) and a control group. Ss were assigned to a JPR group, a BRT group, or a no-treatment group. The 4 exercises of BRT were based on breathing, spine stretching, leg raising, and cycling; the JPR technique involved muscle relaxation. A symptom check list was administered twice, pre- and postrelaxation setting. Both relaxation techniques were found effective compared with the no-treatment group. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)
Article
Describes a new program that evaluates the effects of marital therapy on the marital problems associated with depression, as well as on the depressive symptoms themselves. It is hoped that marital therapy will facilitate both recovery from depression and the long-term maintenance of the positive changes, especially when it is conducted concurrently with cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) for the depressed spouse alone. The treatment model used for working with couples is a social learning or behavior marital therapy model with recent modifications designed to deal more effectively with cognitive and affective components of relationships. CBT includes many techniques for modifying dysfunctional cognitions, including behavioral experiments that are designed to test specific beliefs held by the depressed client. The use of CBT as a vehicle for overcoming excessive dependency and powerlessness and for enhancing social support is discussed. It is concluded that the treatment of depression is moving in an interpersonal direction because depression seems to keep recurring, and impairments in intimate relationships seem to be one of the main factors associated with recurrence. (45 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)
Article
The scale uses the differential between vocabulary and abstract-thinking levels as an index of deterioration. It was standardized for mental age on 1046 normal individuals. Reliability coefficients, obtained from 322 army recruits, are as follows: vocabulary test .87, abstract-thinking test .89, both combined .92. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)
Article
briefly describe the history and development of early behavioral theories of depression / outline more recent behavioral formulations of depression / present behavioral approaches to the assessment of various aspects of unipolar depression, and describe several behavioral treatments for depression / focus particularly on 2 treatment packages for unipolar depression developed at the Depression Research Unit of the University of Oregon: an individual therapy approach and a psychoeducational group intervention / discuss recent extensions of this group intervention to different populations (such as depressed adolescents and the elderly), as well as adaptations for preventive purposes / outline what we believe are important directions for future investigations in this field behavioral assessment of depression [interviews, self-reports, behavioral logs, observational procedures] / behavioral treatment of depression [increasing pleasant activities and decreasing unpleasant events, social skills therapy, self-control therapy, problem-solving therapy, marital/family therapy, the Coping With Depression course (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)
Article
Objectives: This pilot was designed to study identified changes in the psychologic and physiological stress response of individuals who participated in a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction intervention while in treatment of substance abuse in a therapeutic community. Methods: Twenty-one participants in a residential therapeutic community received the intervention, which consisted of training in 5 mindfulness practices. Stress response was assessed by measuring awakening salivary cortisol and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) pre- and post-intervention. Results: Awakening salivary cortisol levels were significantly lower (P < 0.0001) following the intervention. Although there was a decrease in self reported stress between the baseline measurement and the post-intervention measurement, the change in the PSS was not statistically significant (P = 0.65). Conclusions: These results suggest that a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction intervention may influence the physiological response to stress for individuals in a therapeutic community. The results also support the use of salivary cortisol as an indicator of the stress response in this setting. Future studies are needed to determine the value of this intervention as an adjunct to therapeutic community treatment.
Article
Objectives To identify attitudes that influence patient help-seeking behavior and aspects of treatment that influence patient preferences for management of depression.DesignThree focus group discussions (two patient groups stratified by race and one professional group). Questions addressed experience with depression, help-seeking behaviors, treatment preferences, and perceived barriers to mental health care.SettingAcademic medical, center.Patients/participantsEight black patients and eight white patients with depression; seven health care professionals (four physicians and three social workers).Measurements and main resultsDiscussions were audiotaped, transcribed, and reviewed independently by two investigators to identify and group distinct comments into categories with specific themes. Differences were adjudicated by a third investigator. Comments within categories were then checked for relevance and consistency by a health services researcher and a psychiatrist. More than 90% of the 806 comments could be grouped into one of 16 categories. Black patients raised more concerns than white patients regarding spirituality and stigma. Patients made more comments than professionals regarding the impact of spirituality, social support systems, coping strategies, life experiences, patient-provider relationships, and attributes of specific treatments. They discussed the role these factors played in their helpseeking behavior and adherence to treatment.Conclusions In-depth focus group discussions with depressed patients can provide valuable and unique information about patient experiences and concerns regarding treatment for depression. Clinicians, researchers, and policymakers need to incorporate the range of factors identified by patients into their decision making for individuals with depression.
Article
This study examined the separate and combined effects of verbal (cognitive) therapy and aerobic exercise for the treatment of individuals experiencing difficulties coping with dysphoric moods. Sixty-one volunteers who scored between 9 and 30 on the Beck Depression Inventory were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: running only, cognitive therapy only, or combined running and therapy. Cognitive therapy was provided in 10 weekly individual sessions, while supervised running was conducted in small groups three times a week for 10 weeks. All three treatment conditions produced significant but not differential improvement over time on measures assessing a variety of mood states. Posthoc analyses demonstrated that all treatments were equally effective for individuals who initially would have been considered to be mildly depressed (BDI < 20)="" and="" those="" who="" would="" have="" been="" considered="" moderately="" depressed="" (bdi=""> 20). Four-month follow-up data indicated that the improvement had been maintained. The correlation between improvement on depression scores and an index of improved physiological functioning was not significant. Thus, the mechanism through which exercise influences mood was not clarified. These results suggest that supervised involvement in aerobic exercise may be a viable and cost-efficient alternative treatment to traditional individual verbal therapy for some individuals experiencing difficulty with dysphoric moods.
Article
The current study presents data on the reliability and validity of the Life Regard Index (LRI), a 28-item scale which was designed to assess positive life regard, degree of experienced meaningfulness of one's life. The theoretical LRI structure, distinguishing two dimensions framework and fulfilment, was substantially supported by empirical data from distressed student (n = 116), normal student (n = 169) and general population (n=176) samples. The findings demonstrated that the LRI scales have high internal consistency, and good test-retest reliability. The LRI strongly discriminated distressed and non-distressed subjects. Associations with happiness, psychological well-being and primary relationships were established, showing evidence for construct validity of the LRI. Furthermore the instrument was found to be a great extent independent of specific value orientations. The use of the instrument in further research is recommended.
Article
Individuals with osteoarthritis can experience difficulty walking and poor strength, possibly leading to falls and fractures. Exercise has been found to increase strength and bone mineral density. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of 6 months of t'ai chi on knee muscle strength, bone mineral density, and fear of falling in older women with osteoarthritis. Eighty-two (82) women with osteoarthritis, recruited from outpatient clinics and community health centers, were randomly assigned to either a t'ai chi group and took part in a t'ai chi program, or a control group. Of these, 30 subjects (mean age = 63 years) in the t'ai chi group and 35 (mean age = 61 years) in the control group completed post-test measures at 6 months. After the 6-month study period, subjects in the t'ai chi program had significantly greater knee extensor endurance (pre- to post-test mean increase = 36.4 W/kg, versus 1.1 W/kg for the controls), and significantly greater bone mineral density in the neck of the proximal femur (mean change = 0.09, versus -0.10 for the controls), Ward's triangle (mean change = 0.04, versus -0.04 for the controls), and trochanter (mean change = 0.07, versus -0.05 for the controls) than the controls. However, knee extensor and flexor strength did not differ significantly between the groups. The fear of falling during daily activities reduced significantly more in the t'ai chi group (mean change = -2.40, versus 0.66 for the controls). T'ai chi increased knee extensor muscle endurance and bone mineral density in older women with osteoarthritis, and decreased their fear of falling during daily activities. Further study with long-term follow-up is needed to substantiate the role of t'ai chi exercise in the prevention of fall and its related fracture.