Revista Internacional de Saúde Mental e Psiquiatria

The Effects of Diaphragmatic Breathing and Cyclic Meditation on Mental Health and HIV Risky Behaviour among Inmates in Zambian Correctional Facilities: A Cross Sectional Intervention Study

Jonathan Chinyama* and Anitha J Menon

Introduction: A growing number of empirical studies have revealed that diaphragmatic breathing and cyclic meditation may trigger body relaxation responses and benefit both physical and mental health. However, the specific benefits of diaphragmatic breathing on mental health remain largely unknown and those of cyclic meditation have been documented. The present study aimed to investigate the efficacy of diaphragmatic breathing and cyclic meditation as an intervention on mental health and HIV risky behaviour among inmates in Zambian correctional facilities.

Methods: The intervention study, used systematic randomised controlled method to assign inmates with current psychotic disorders into groups A and B with exception of C. Twenty-four inmates were enrolled in three different intervention groups (A,B and C), 8 in each group. Three different types of interventions were developed based on the theory of planned behaviour and guidance by the WHO recommended “gold” standard treatment (pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy) options for managing psychotic disorders. Each group received different intervention package and were statistically compared at six weeks. Group A, (N=8) received antipsychotic drugs, practiced cyclic meditation, regulated breathing techniques and group psychoeducation twice every week for six weeks. Group B, (N=8) received antipsychotic drugs and psychoeducation twice weekly for six weeks. Group C, received anti-psychotic medication only.

Results: Findings suggested that inmates in group A, had the best prognosis compared to the other groups, followed by group B and C recorded poor prognosis. Results showed that after the intervention, inmate’s mental wellbeing had tremendously improved with the exception of group C. Group A, indicated a statistically positive improvement with 94.71% change compared to groups B 44.2% and C 15.25%. Within groups, group A, indicated a positive improvement in mental wellbeing followed by groups B and C. Therefore, the intervention in group a resulted in a positive outcome to the inmates’ mental wellbeing. After intervention, HIV risk behaviours were eradicated in groups A and B with exception of C.

Conclusion: The combination therapy of antipsychotics, cyclic meditation, regulated breathing techniques and group psychoeducation suggested being an effective intervention package with significant positive outcomes in improving inmates’ psychotic disorders, general mental wellbeing and HIV risk behaviour. This study provided evidence demonstrating the effects of diaphragmatic breathing, a mind body practice, on mental function, from a health psychology approach, which has important implications for health promotion in healthy individuals.