YOGA-BASED HOLISTIC TREATMENT FOR NEGATIVE SYMPTOMS OF SCHIZOPHRENIA

Yoga is widely recognized for its physical and mental health benefits. Over the past decade, it has gained atten­tion as a promising adjunctive intervention for various psychiatric conditions, including schizophrenia. While current pharmacological treatments are effective for po­sitive symptoms, negative symptoms remain difficult to manage. This narrative review provides an overview for mental health care professionals regarding the potential role of yoga as an add-on therapy for negative symptoms of schizophrenia. A PubMed search identified randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published between 2015–2025. Of the nine studies found, four met predefined inclu­sion criteria. Across these RCTs, participants receiving yoga demonstrated reductions in the severity of negative symptoms, measured primarily using the Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms (SANS). These fin­dings suggest that yoga may support improved social and functional outcomes when used alongside antipsychotic treatment. Further research is needed to refine protocols and understand long-term effectiveness.