THE EFFECT OF YOGA PRACTICE IN ADOLESCENTS WITH DEPRESSION – CASE STUDY

Abstract

Adolescence is one of the most significant stages of development. Many physical emotional and social changes along with exposure to poverty, abuse and violence can make adolescents prone to mental health problems. Globally depression is the fourth most leading cause of illness in adolescents in the age 15-19 and it’s the fifteenth most common reason for illness for those in the age 10-14. Yoga and mindfulness are identified as the most ancient mind-body medicine and interventions. Research studies indicate that yoga practice has helped in reducing depression, Becks Depression Inventory (BDI) 95% of the times. 

Research design: Case Study method. Observations were made systematically and the opinions of parents, school counsellors and doctors were recorded. General Objective: Specific Objective: 1) To study the socio-demographic profile of adolescents. 2) To study the depressive symptoms in adolescents after yoga practice. 3) To study depressive symptoms in adolescents after meditation. Ethical Concern: concern of the adolescent and parent was obtained before the study. Ethical clearance obtained from Amrita Ethical Committee attached. Results: Three groups of 5 students were studied at different times each group were recommended by parents/ school councilors/doctors. Yoga therapyfor 2 – 4 weeks or more can reduce depression.  The depressive emotions like sadness, feeling of worthlessness, sleeplessness, loneliness, lack of concentration and hopelessness could be reduced significantly. The parent’s teachers and doctors stated that positive indications were visible after yoga therapy. Conclusion: We can conclude that therapeutic yoga can be identified as an auxiliary method in treating depression both clinical and non-clinical depression, the medication should not be altered without doctors consent.