Depression is increasingly effecting children and adolescents, often impacting their emotional wellbeing, relationships and academic performance. While medication and counselling remain the mainstay of treatment, researchers are exploring complementary approaches that can support recovery. A recent study from All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, suggests that yoga may be one such promising option.
The study, published in the International Journal of Yoga, developed and pilot tested a yoga therapy module specifically designed for children and adolescents diagnosed with major depressive disorder. The research was conducted by Dr Bichitra Nanda Patra, Dr Kanika Khandelwal, Dr Rajesh Sagar and Dr Gautam Sharma from the Departments of Psychiatry and Cardiology, AIIMS New Delhi.
Yoga Programme Tailored for Young People
The researchers developed a targeted yoga programme using evidence from previous studies and traditional yoga literature. The module was reviewed and validated by experts in yoga sciences before being tested among children and adolescents with depression.
The programme included age appropriate practices, with a focus on dynamic movements, relaxation techniques and home based practice to improve participation and adherence.
Positive Feedback from Participants
The yoga sessions were well received by participants, who described the classes as calming, enjoyable and beneficial. Many reported feeling more peaceful, emotionally balanced and motivated to continue practicing yoga at home. Some participants said the sessions helped them become more aware of their emotions and bodily sensations.
Importantly, none of the participants reported serious side effects, and overall satisfaction with the programme remained high throughout the study.
Improvements in Depression and Wellbeing
The pilot study found encouraging improvements in depression scores over the 12 week intervention period. Researchers also observed better overall functioning and wellbeing among participants after completing the programme.
According to the authors, yoga appeared to promote self awareness, emotional regulation and greater resilience in dealing with everyday stressors. The therapy also helped participants develop a better understanding of their thoughts, feelings and physical sensations.
More Research Needed
While the findings are promising, the researchers noted that the study involved only a small number of participants and did not include a control group. Larger studies will be needed to confirm the effectiveness of the yoga programme and assess its long term benefits.
The study suggests that yoga could serve as a safe and acceptable complementary therapy for children and adolescents living with depression. Although further research is required, the findings add to growing evidence that yoga may help improve mental wellbeing and support conventional treatment approaches in young people.
