| Abstract: |
Adolescence is a critical developmental period marked by biological, psychological, and social transitions that increase vulnerability to stress and common mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. Global estimates suggest that 10–20% of adolescents experience a diagnosable mental health condition, with many remaining undiagnosed and untreated. In India, school-based studies report mental health problem prevalence ranging from 7% in community samples to over 20% in school populations, and recent research from Gujarat indicates a significant burden of emotional and behavioural difficulties among school-going adolescents. Academic pressure, competitive examinations, and parental expectations are salient stressors in the South Gujarat region, which comprises rapidly urbanizing districts such as Surat, Navsari, and Bharuch. Parallel to the growing burden of stress is a widening “treatment gap” in adolescent mental healthcare in India, with estimates suggesting that over 80% of individuals with mental health conditions do not receive timely or adequate care. In this context, school-based, low-cost, culturally congruent interventions such as yoga and Om meditation offer promising complementary strategies for stress reduction. Multiple Indian studies show that relatively brief yoga interventions can significantly reduce perceived stress, anxiety, and psychological distress among school and college students. Likewise, Om chanting–based meditation has been found to improve psychological well-being and reduce anxiety and distress among adolescents and young adults. The present paper focuses on “Yoga and Om Meditation as Stress-Reduction Strategies for Adolescents in South Gujarat”. It (a) synthesizes empirical evidence on adolescent stress and mental health in India and Gujarat, (b) reviews the efficacy of yoga and Om meditation as stress-management tools for adolescents, (c) proposes a school-based intervention framework tailored to South Gujarat, and (d) outlin |
