Actively Recruiting
Effects of Baduanjin Breathing Training for Depression and Anxiety Patients: a Prospective Randomized Study
Led by Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine · Updated on 2026-04-29
120
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
30 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
S
Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Lead Sponsor
S
Shanghai Mental Health Center
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are evaluating the effects of Baduanjin breathing training on people with symptoms of depression or anxiety, focusing on those with a mixed depressive and anxiety disorder that is not severe enough to meet full diagnostic criteria. The study aims to see if this mind-body exercise can reduce symptoms and understand how changes in lung function relate to symptom improvements. This is a prospective randomized trial conducted by the Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Participants are divided into two groups: one group receives health education plus a 16-week Baduanjin breathing training program that includes instructor-led group sessions and home practice, while the other group receives only health education. The Baduanjin training involves two 90-minute classes and at least five 30-minute home practice sessions per week, with warmup and cooldown periods included. The health education covers topics such as work, rest, and diet and is provided by professionals. Throughout the 16-week study, participants will be assessed using depression and anxiety rating scales to measure symptom changes. Lung functions like vital capacity and forced expiratory volume will also be monitored. Other assessments include questionnaires on depression, anxiety, and stress at 8 and 16 weeks. The study involves regular evaluations to track breathing patterns and symptom progress, with safety and adherence monitored by the research team.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Baduanjin Training for Depression and Anxiety Patients
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Diagnosed with depression or anxiety symptoms by ICD-10
- Depression score between 7 and 29 on HAMD-17; anxiety score between 7 and 29 on HAMA-14
- Ability to read, talk, and communicate clearly
- Agree to participate and sign informed consent
- Aged between 18 and 70 years
You will not qualify if you...
- Diagnosis of bipolar disorder, psychotic disorder, organic mental disorder, or cognitive disorder
- Alcohol abuse, substance dependence, or suicidal behavior in the past year
- Severe physical illness
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 16 weeks
Participants receive health education, and those in the Baduanjin group participate in a 16-week breathing training program with instructor-led group classes and at-home practice sessions.
Two 90-minute training classes per week plus at least five 30-minute at-home practice sessions per week
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
Shanghai Qigong Research Institute
Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality, China, 021
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
Y
Ying Lu, Master
X
Xiaoting Zhao
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
SINGLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
2
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