Depression is the most prevalent neuropsychiatric disorder in the world. Worldwide, approximately 280 million people suffer from depression, including myself. In America alone, 21 million adults have reported at least one depressive episode in their lifetime - this equates to about 8.4% of the adult population.
For those with Major Depressive Disorder, the majority report only a 50% reduction in their symptoms with standard treatment - A.K.A. antidepressant medications - leading many depression suffers to seek out alternative therapies to mitigate their symptoms.
Many studies have reviewed the efficacy of yoga as an alternative or complementary treatment for Depression. One study delved specifically into the link between stress reduction and depressive symptoms and showed a direct link between stress and an increase in depressive symptoms/episodes in those with Major Depressive Disorder. As we have discussed in previous posts, yoga reduces stress levels by focusing on breath control, as well as provides physical movement, allowing the tension being held in the body to release.
Yoga has been shown to improve depressive symptoms even when done for short periods of time - whether it is practiced for months on end or for a few days at a time. This is important to note, as the symptoms of depression itself can limit ones ability to be physically active. Two of the most common symptoms of depression are extreme fatigue and body aches - so it is easy to see why this would make yoga, or any other physical movement difficult. However, this research also indicates that even if someone with depression can only manage a few minutes of yoga a few times a week, this will be helpful!
For these studies noted above, various types of yoga practices were studied, with Hatha yoga being the most common. Yet, all types, including Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Yin, and Mindfulness-based meditation.
I have mentioned before that one of my favorite things about yoga is its inclusiveness - regardless of age, gender, race, or ability, there is a yoga style for everyone - and this continues to show here when researching the effects of yoga on depressive symptoms.
-Charlene
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