Effects of Sahaj Samadhi Meditation on health-related quality of life of glaucoma patients: A feasibility study

Background

Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness, with a growing body of literature linking it to mental disorders. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Sahaj Samadhi Meditation (SSM) on depression, anxiety, sleep quality, and community integration in patients with glaucoma.

Methods

A prospective feasibility study was conducted with 28 participants aged 18 and older, including those with mild to severe glaucoma and glaucoma suspects. Participants were divided into two groups: one receiving treatment as usual (TAU) and the other receiving TAU plus Sahaj Samadhi Meditation (SSM). The SSM group participated in a structured 4-day group session and were instructed to meditate regularly on their own. Assessments were conducted on vision-related quality of life (VRQOL), depressive symptoms, anxiety, sleep quality, and community integration at baseline and at the 24-week follow-up. Feasibility outcomes were measured, and statistical analysis was performed using STATA 18.0.

Results

The SSM group showed a significant reduction in depression and improvement in sleep quality compared to the control group. Additionally, the SSM group experienced a reduction in anxiety symptoms. However, there were no significant differences in VRQOL, and community integration between the two groups. No adverse effects were reported.

Conclusions

SSM may help reduce depressive symptoms and improve sleep quality in glaucoma patients. It may also alleviate anxiety symptoms. Further studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods are needed to confirm these findings.