fotolia_1932110 (2)A study appearing in the American Journal of Psychiatry (1992;149:7:946-943) looked at the effect of meditation on 22 patients with anxiety or panic disorder. The patients were evaluated by self assessment forms and therapist ratings prior to and during the program. They took part in a relaxation program based in meditation. After 20 sessions, 20 of the subjects enjoyed reduction in anxiety scores. Improvement was maintained during the follow-up period. The authors felt that meditation can reduce the symptoms of panic and anxiety. The benefits experienced are when meditation is a regular practice and not used as a technique to reduce anxiety when it occurs.