Does indiginous relaxation excercise module (Sudarshan Kriya) help relapse prevention in patients of Alcohol dependence syndrome? Experience from a tertiary care psychiatric centre

BACKGROUND : Course of Alcohol Dependence Syndrome(ADS) is known for its relapsing nature. Additional interventions with empirical evidence are worthy of consideration. Spiritual interventions, Breathing and Relaxation Training, like Sudarshan Kriya is recommended for stress management, and has shown to positively affect outcomes in stress-related disorders. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of an intervention of Breathing and Relaxation Training, on drinking behaviour in patients of ADS. METHOD: Eighty in-patients diagnosed with ADS were included after obtaining informed consent, in this prospective study and were randomized into two groups. They were administered AUDIT at admission and 6-months after discharge. The Study group(n=40) underwent a 6-day intervention of Breathing and relaxation Training (Sudarshan Kriya) apart from the standard therapy. 'WHO-5 Well-Being Index' was administered before and after the training. The Control group was exposed to the standard therapy for ADS. A follow-up on monthly basis and finally at 6-month interval was done to assess alcohol consumption status. RESULTS: Socio-demographically both the groups were comparable. The breathing and relaxation training(study) group had a significant rise in 'WHO-5 Well-Being Index' (p<0.001). AUDIT scores were significantly lower in the Study group(11.20 ± 2.81) than the Control group(15.30 ± 4.05) after 6 months(p< 0.001). The Study group also reported fewer days of drinking (p=0.004) and reduced overall drinking(p<0.001). CONCLUSION: The addition of Breathing and Relaxation Training(Sudarshan Kriya) in the management of ADS provided additional therapeutic benefits in the form of fewer days of drinking and reduced total alcohol consumption.