Beneficial Effect of Yoga-based Lifestyle Intervention on Anxiety and Depression in Young adults: Non-randomized Controlled Study

Background and Aim: Regular yoga practices have been shown beneficial effects on physical, psychological and social health in clinical and non-clinical population. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of yoga based lifestyle intervention on anxiety, depression and quality of life in young adults. Methods and Materials: Total 102 participants of both genders (40 females) between 25-45 years who reported anxiety and depression in last six months. There were fifty-two participants enrolled for yoga therapy (YT) for two weeks whereas 50 participants selected from nearby clinic. The anxiety and depression were assessed by using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and general health was assessed by the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ). Results and Conclusion: Statistical analysis showed that anxiety and depression were significantly reduced by 23% and 32% respectively, whereas general health (GHQ) was improved by 15% after 14-day yoga intervention. This suggests that yoga based lifestyle intervention may be a cost-effective add-on treatment for symptoms associated with mental health problems and enhances general wellbeing.