TCM Daoyin for Anxiety/Depression: Psychological Effects and Biological Mechanisms

Launched by SHANGHAI UNIVERSITY OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE · Apr 9, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying the effects of a Traditional Chinese Medicine exercise called Daoyin on symptoms of anxiety and depression. Over 12 weeks, 20 participants will engage in this exercise to see if it helps improve their mood and reduce anxiety. Researchers will measure changes in anxiety and depression scores at the start, after 12 weeks, and again after an additional 12-week follow-up period. They will also look at participants' sleep quality and some biological markers to better understand how the exercise might work.

To be eligible for this trial, participants should be between 18 and 65 years old and have symptoms of anxiety and depression that meet specific criteria. They should not have used any psychiatric medications in the past six months and must be able to communicate and engage in daily activities independently. Participants will need to provide some blood and stool samples during the study to help with research. This trial is currently recruiting and aims to provide insights into how TCM can support mental health.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Primary symptoms of anxiety and depression, with a Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA-14) score between 14 and 29 and a Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-17) score between 7 and 14.
• • No prior use of psychotropic medication, or at least six months since discontinuation.
• • Aged 18 to 65 years (male or female).
• • Clear consciousness and normal cognitive function, with the ability to communicate effectively, read, express thoughts, and engage in daily activities independently.
• • Willing and able to comply with blood and stool sample collection.
• • Voluntary participation, with signed informed consent provided before enrollment.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Diagnosed anxiety disorder or depressive disorder based on ICD-10 criteria.
• • Bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders (e.g., schizophrenia), or organic mental disorders (e.g., Alzheimer's disease).
• • History of alcohol or substance use disorder within the past year, current psychiatric medication use, or high suicide risk.
• • Severe or unstable medical conditions, including immune or endocrine disorders or other serious illnesses.
• • Physical or psychological limitations preventing participation in the TCM Daoyin intervention.
• • Pregnant or breastfeeding women.