Yoga or group therapy for teens with depression

Plain-English translation of NCT07475845 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated October 2026 · Translation generated July 2026 · How we translate trials

This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

This study is comparing two different ways to help teens with depression feel better: a yoga-based program and group cognitive-behavioral therapy (a talking therapy focused on changing thoughts and behaviors). Over 3 months, you'll attend classes at the hospital, and researchers will track how well each approach works and whether teens find them helpful.

Depression in teenagers is common and serious, but researchers want to find out whether yoga and group therapy are practical, acceptable, and effective options that can help reduce depression and worry while building skills like self-compassion and self-awareness.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are between 12 and 18 years old
you have elevated depression symptoms confirmed by screening questionnaires
you are able to attend group classes at the study hospital in Columbus or Boston
you have access to a private, quiet space once a week for online sessions
you can read and write in English
you are medically able to participate in physical activity like gym class or sports

You likely don't qualify if…

you have been diagnosed with bipolar I disorder, a current psychotic disorder, or current eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia
you have severe depression or moderate-to-high suicide risk
you have active suicidal thoughts and are not currently in another mental health treatment
you have used drugs or alcohol in the past year in ways that would interfere with study participation
you have started a new depression medication or begun/stopped therapy in the past 4 weeks
you are currently taking yoga classes or group therapy elsewhere

What participation looks like

You will be randomly assigned to either a 12-week yoga program or 12-week group cognitive-behavioral therapy—both held in person at the hospital. You'll attend classes once a week and continue for 3 additional months of follow-up visits where researchers will ask about your mood, anxiety, and how you're doing. Your parents may also be asked to complete some brief assessments about your wellbeing.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jul 17, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(2 sites)

United States

Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts

Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio