Abstract
Objective
This pilot study examines the effects of yoga therapy on anxiety, depression symptoms, inattention, and seizure frequency in children diagnosed with Epilepsy.
Data Selection
The sample consisted of 5 participants (4 male, 1 female), ages 7-12 years old, with diagnoses of generalized epilepsy, absence epilepsy, and complex partial epilepsy. Participants all had average cognitive abilities (IQ SS = 100.7; VCI SS = 106.3; PRI SS = 108.3), a diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and clinically significant levels of anxiety and depression. Participants participated in 30-45-minute-long yoga sessions over a 6-week period with 2-3 home sessions each week. Differences in hyperactivity, anxiety, depression, and inattention were measured via parent rating Likert scales (0-poor, 10-best) at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. Participants also completed weekly self-report measures to assess anxiety and depression (Revised Children’s Manifest Anxiety, Second Edition (RCMAS-2) and Children’s Depression Inventory, Second Edition (CDI-2)).
Data Synthesis
No significant reliable change differences were found between sessions; however, a downward trend was visible in reduction of anxiety (RCMAS-2; first session M = 16.4, last session M = 9.4) and depression symptoms (CDI-2; first session M = 52.8, last session M = 49.2). Further, parents reported a decrease in anxiety (first session M = 4.8, last session M = 6.4). No seizures were reported during the study.
Conclusions
There is no previous research using pediatric populations and yoga therapy effects on reducing seizure frequency, anxiety, depression, and attention problems. This pilot study showed promising results in reducing anxiety, and depression symptoms. Limitations of study include small sample size and attrition, which are both important to consider when conducting another study.