Paper Details

Mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affect hundreds of millions of people worldwide. Although psychotherapy and medication are widely used to manage these conditions, they come with limitations such as side effects, cost, and inconsistent results. This paper explores yoga as a complementary approach to mental health treatment. It examines yoga’s neurobiological effects, including its influence on brain structure, neurotransmitters, and the autonomic nervous system. Clinical research on yoga's role in treating depression, anxiety, and PTSD is reviewed, along with comparisons to traditional therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and pharmacological interventions. The paper also discusses case studies and meta-analyses to support yoga's potential in mental health care. While not a substitute for conventional treatment, yoga offers a holistic, accessible, and low-risk way to support mental well-being. The growing body of evidence makes a strong case for integrating yoga into broader mental health strategies.

Yoga, Mental Health. Psychotherapy, Human development