Benson relaxation exercise reduces anxiety levels and improves sleep quality in adolescents receiving inpatient psychiatric treatment
In a randomized controlled trial of 60 adolescents in a psychiatric clinic, those performing Benson relaxation exercise five times had significantly lower state anxiety and better sleep quality at post-test (Day 6) and follow-up (Day 10) compared to the control group. The intervention group showed sustained improvements over the 10-day study period.
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Benson relaxation exercise reduces anxiety levels and improves sleep quality in adolescents receiving inpatient psychiatric treatment The current body of evidence comprises 1 study, including 1 randomized controlled trial. EvidenceHub rates the overall confidence at 42/100 (low).
The Claim
Benson relaxation exercise reduces anxiety levels and improves sleep quality in adolescents receiving inpatient psychiatric treatment
This conclusion is most relevant to: Adolescents receiving inpatient treatment in a psychiatric clinic.
What the Research Shows
The conclusion draws on 1 linked study. Highlights from the cited literature:
- ▸Effect of Benson Relaxation Exercise on Anxiety Level and Sleep Quality in Adolescents Receiving Inpatient Treatment in a Psychiatric Clinic. (Journal of psychosocial nursing and mental health services, 2026) —
How It Works
The proposed biological pathway:
- ▸Benson relaxation exercise induces a relaxation response
- ▸Reduces physiological arousal and stress hormone levels
- ▸Decreases anxiety and promotes calmness
- ▸Improves sleep quality
Who Might Benefit
Evidence fit by population:
- ▸Adolescents receiving inpatient treatment in a psychiatric clinic
Recommended Dose
Five sessions of Benson relaxation exercise
Limitations & Caveats
Important context when interpreting this evidence:
- ▸Small sample size (n=60 total, 30 per group) limits generalizability
- ▸No blinding of participants or personnel due to the nature of the intervention
- ▸Short follow-up period (only 10 days) does not assess long-term effects
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Benson relaxation exercise?▼
Benson relaxation exercise is a mind-body technique that involves deep breathing, muscle relaxation, and focused attention to elicit a relaxation response, often used to reduce stress and anxiety.
How many times did participants perform the exercise?▼
The intervention group performed Benson relaxation exercise five times over the study period, with assessments on Day 6 (post-test) and Day 10 (follow-up).
Was the study randomized?▼
Yes, the study used a randomized controlled experimental design with 30 adolescents in the intervention group and 30 in the control group.
What outcomes were measured?▼
The study measured state anxiety levels and sleep quality, both showing significant improvement in the intervention group compared to controls.
References
- 1.Yalcinturk AA, Gulseven EB, Bicer Y, Gul B. “Effect of Benson Relaxation Exercise on Anxiety Level and Sleep Quality in Adolescents Receiving Inpatient Treatment in a Psychiatric Clinic..” Journal of psychosocial nursing and mental health services, 2026. PMID: 42461159 DOI: 10.3928/02793695-20260710-03