Mind–Body Exercises for PTSD Symptoms, Depression, and Anxiety in Patients With PTSD: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Frontiers in Psychology January 18, 2022 Lin Zhu, Long Li, Xiaozhi Li et al. 43 citations
Mind-body exercises such as yoga and mindfulness significantly reduce PTSD symptoms, depression, and anxiety in people with PTSD. A meta-analysis of 16 randomized controlled trials found a moderate effect on PTSD symptoms (standard mean difference = -0.41), depression (-0.35), and anxiety (-0.31). The most effective regimen for PTSD symptoms in patients under 45 was 60-150 minutes of mindfulness per session for 8-16 weeks. For depression, 150-180 minutes of yoga once weekly was effective. The optimal type, frequency, and duration for anxiety could not be determined due to limited trials. Mind-body exercises are recommended as an adjunct treatment, but more rigorous trials are needed.