A pilot study on certain yogic and naturopathic procedures in generalized anxiety disorder

Abstract

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is one of the most common anxiety disorders characterized by persistent worrying, anxiety symptoms, and tension. Most community-based studies place the prevalence in the range of 2 to 5 percent, with a lifetime prevalence as high as 8 percent. Even though previous studies on yoga and naturopathy in anxiety disorders proved effective, there lack proper methodology and they are not specifically focused at GAD. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of certain yogic and naturopathic procedures in the management of GAD. A total of 12 patients with GAD satisfying the DSM IV TR diagnostic criteria were selected and allotted in to two groups, Yoga group and Naturopathic group by following randomization method. In Yoga group, various asana's and pranayama were practiced one hour daily for 21 days. In Naturopathy group, full body massage and steam, diaphragmatic breathing and acupressure were done one hour daily for 21 days. Criteria of assessment were based on the scoring of Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS). Statistical analysis was done by using paired and unpaired't' test. In Yoga group (n = 6), 52.59 % relief was observed (P < 0.01) and in Naturopathy group (n = 6), 41.61 % of relief was observed (P < 0.001) on the total score of HARS. There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) found in between the two groups. Both Yoga and Naturopathic procedures are effective in the management of GAD. Even though Yoga and Naturopathy interventions proved effective on HARS total score of GAD, Yoga seems to be an attractive option because of its non pharmacological approach, cost effectiveness and international acceptance when compared to the other interventions.