Baduanjin breathing training for patients with depression and anxiety

Effects of Baduanjin Breathing Training for Depression and Anxiety Patients: a Prospective Randomized Study

Not applicable Interventional Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine · NCT05589337

This study is testing if Baduanjin breathing exercises can help people with depression and anxiety feel better compared to just receiving health education.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment120 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 70 Years
SexAll
SponsorShanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Academic / other
Locations1 site (Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality)
Trial IDNCT05589337 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of Baduanjin breathing training on reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety in individuals diagnosed with these conditions. It is a prospective randomized trial that will enroll 120 participants, dividing them into two groups: one receiving Baduanjin training alongside health education, and the other receiving only health education. The study aims to assess the correlation between symptom improvement and changes in lung function. The approach is rooted in traditional Chinese mind-body exercises, which have shown promise in previous studies.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals diagnosed with mild to moderate symptoms of depression or anxiety who meet specific inclusion criteria.

Not a fit: Patients with severe mental health disorders, such as bipolar disorder or psychotic disorders, are unlikely to benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a non-pharmacological intervention for alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated potential benefits of Baduanjin for mental health, but this specific approach is still being explored.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Subject with depression or anxiety symptom diagnosed by ICD-10.
* Depression 7≤HAMD-17≤29,anxiety 7≤HAMA-14≤29.
* Subject has a clear mind and the ability to read, to talk and to communicate.
* Subject agrees to participate in this study and sign to the informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Subject with bipolar disorder, psychotic disorder, organic mental disorder and cognitive disorder.
* Subject with alcohol abuse, substance dependence and suicidal behavior in past-year.
* Subject has severe somatic disease.
* Subject is pregnant or lactating women.

Where this trial is running

Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Depression SymptomsAnxiety SymptomsBaduanjinDepressionAnxietyRandomized controlled trial
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.