Breathing Practice for Anxiety and Depression

This trial explores a new breathing practice to help adolescents in rural areas manage anxiety and depression. The goal is to determine if a structured breathing exercise, known as the Breathing Intervention, can feasibly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. The study seeks adolescents aged 12 to 17 diagnosed with mild to moderate anxiety or depression who live in rural areas. Participants must receive care from specific psychiatric clinics and be able to read and understand English. This trial provides an opportunity to try a non-drug approach that might enhance daily life for young people facing these challenges. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique chance to explore innovative, non-drug solutions for mental health challenges.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Studies have shown that structured breathing exercises can be safe for people with anxiety and depression. For example, research on a specific breathing exercise called Seokmun Hoheup involved participants with long-term experience and reported no serious side effects. Instead, these exercises often improved mood and reduced stress.

Researchers are excited about the breathing intervention for anxiety and depression because it offers a non-drug alternative that can be easily practiced by adolescents. Unlike standard treatments like medication or therapy, which can take weeks to show results and may have side effects, this structured breathing practice, known as Seokmun Hoheup, can potentially provide quicker relief with no side effects. This method empowers young people to manage their symptoms independently, which is particularly beneficial for those in rural areas with limited access to traditional mental health services.

Research shows that breathing exercises can help reduce anxiety and stress. One study found that practicing breathing techniques for six weeks improved breathing efficiency and lowered stress levels. Another study discovered that guided breathing exercises significantly reduced anxiety in COVID-19 patients. Breathing techniques can calm the body by promoting relaxation. In this trial, rural adolescent patients will follow a structured breathing practice, Seokmun Hoheup, to evaluate its effectiveness in managing anxiety and depression in teenagers.¹⁴⁶⁷⁸