OBJECTIVE

One of the most prevalent psychiatric conditions that affect a person's quality of life, ability to function and productivity, and consequently the loss of national income, are anxiety disorders. Rajyoga meditation (RM) is a form of meditation that is performed without rituals or mantras and can be practiced anywhere at any time. In this study, we attempted to evaluate the modulation of psycho-physiological parameters in panic disorder patients by a technique of short-term on RM.

METHODS

In this prospective randomized control study, 110 patients with panic disorder were randomized into two groups, Group A (standard treatment + RM) and Group B (Standard treatment). The participants of both group participants were subjected to sleep quality score, Physical Health Questionnaire-9 score, Panic Disorder Severity Scale (PDSS), and Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) questionnaires before starting the study (baseline) and at the end of the 8 week. Study groups were compared at baseline and at the end of 8 weeks.

RESULTS

We found that the PDSS/HAM-A was not statistically different among the study groups at baseline ( > 0.05); however, there was a statistically significant difference in mean z-scores of PDSS and post-HAM-A scores among the study groups at 8 weeks ( < 0.001). The composite score was created by adding the z-scores of pre- and post-PDSS and HAM-A. We found a statistically significant difference in postcomposite scores between the study groups ( < 0.001). Analysis of co-variance for PDSS and HAM-A among study groups showed statistical significance ( < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

When used in conjunction with pharmaceutical treatments for the treatment of panic disorder, RM is a successful therapy. The key factors are adherence and motivation while being supervised by a licensed therapist.