Management of Generalized Anxiety Disorder through Yoga Nidra and Cognitive-Based Behavioral Therapy: Integrating Indian Philosophy and Psychotherapy

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), characterized by continuous anxiety and discomfort, causes burnout, compassion fatigue, and physical symptoms among mental health practitioners. This case study shows the case of a 45-year-old female mental health professional with GAD, perfectionism, and empathy fatigue. Yoga Nidra and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)-based intervention were used for 6–8 weeks to teach psychoeducation, emotional resilience, and cognitive restructuring using the classic Indian techniques, including Vijnana, Dhairya, Smriti, Pratibha , and Samadhi. Psychopharmacotherapy stabilized symptoms while guided imagery, graded exposure, and journaling decreased maladaptive thinking patterns and emotional reactivity. Regular follow-ups and clinical tests (GAD-7, Hamilton Anxiety Rating [HAM]-A) showed anxiety, mindfulness, and self-regulation improvements. Culturally adaptable treatments that combine old Indian frameworks with modern psychotherapy can treat GAD’s cognitive, emotional, and somatic aspects, as shown in this example. Self-practices are hard to maintain; hence, mindfulness-based behavioral interventions may be needed.