Yoga and Depressive Disorders: A Review of Current Literature

Abstract

Depressive disorders are among the most common mental health disorders encountered in primary care. The most common initial treatment for major depressive disorder includes a combination of pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy. Although these modalities are effective adherence issues are common; and complementary and alternative approaches may provide additional options for depressive disorders. Yoga is the most commonly used complementary health approach in the United States of America (USA) [1]. There is some clinical evidence that supports the benefits of yoga for depressive disorders, but the results are variable. The article reviews data from current randomized clinical trials, systematic reviews and a meta-analysis on the effectiveness of yoga for depressive disorders (Appendix).