Preliminary effectiveness of a trauma-informed mind-body intervention for survivors of human trafficking in the Philippines

Abstract

Human trafficking survivors report high rates of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Despite growing attention to the mental health needs of this population, there is a dearth of evidence-based mental health interventions and reintegration support programs for survivors in low-resource settings. We report findings from a pilot study exploring the preliminary effectiveness of a trauma-informed, mind-body intervention for survivors in Cebu, Philippines. Data were analyzed using linear mixed-effects models. Findings show significant reductions in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD among survivors over time. Findings demonstrate the promise of culturally-responsive, low-technology mind-body interventions to address survivors’ mental health needs.