Exercise program for adults with anxiety disorders
Optimizing Exercise for the Treatment of Anxiety
NA · NYU Langone Health · NCT04638946
This study is testing whether a low-intensity or flexible high-intensity exercise program can help adults with anxiety feel better over 8 weeks.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 90 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | NYU Langone Health (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (New York, New York) |
| Trial ID | NCT04638946 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study involves 90 sedentary adults diagnosed with primary anxiety disorders who will be randomized to participate in either low-intensity exercise or a flexible high-intensity exercise program over 8 weeks. The study aims to assess the effects of these exercise interventions on anxiety outcomes using both clinician-rated and patient-rated measures, with follow-ups at 1 and 3 months. Additionally, the research will explore the mechanisms influencing exercise decisions through heart rate monitoring, neuroeconomics tasks, and ecological momentary assessments to evaluate mood changes related to exercise. The goal is to better understand how exercise can be effectively integrated into the treatment of anxiety disorders.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are sedentary adults aged 18-65 with a primary diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, or panic disorder and high anxiety sensitivity.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, or current PTSD may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a non-pharmacological treatment option for individuals suffering from anxiety disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results for exercise as an intervention for anxiety, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria * Males and females ages 18-65 * Primary psychiatric diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, or panic disorder * Anxiety Sensitivity Index-3 score of ≥23 (i.e., high anxiety sensitivity) * Currently sedentary (≤60 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week for the past 3 months) * Body mass index \<40 * Able and willing to provide informed consent Exclusion Criteria * Lifetime history of Bipolar I or II or any psychotic disorder * Bulimia or anorexia in the past 6 months * Substance use disorder in the past 3 months * Current PTSD (past PTSD is allowed) * High current suicide risk (active suicidal ideation with plan and intent) as indicated by a score of ≥4 on the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) consistent with a need for referral to higher level of care
Where this trial is running
New York, New York
- NYU Langone Health — New York, New York, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Kristin Szuhany, PhD — NYU Langone Health
- Study coordinator: Kristin Szuhany, PhD
- Email: Kristin.szuhany@nyulangone.org
- Phone: 646-754-5161
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Anxiety