Depression and anxiety are two of the most common mental health conditions in the United States. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, about 7% of American adults suffer from depression in a given year, and 18% have an anxiety disorder. While there are many treatments available for these conditions, massage therapy is often overlooked. In this blog post, I'll discuss how massage therapy can help treat depression and anxiety.
Massage therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment for depression and anxiety. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that massage therapy was effective in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety in a group of patients with major depressive disorder. The study found that massage therapy was especially helpful in reducing rumination, which is a type of thinking that can worsen depression and anxiety.
Massage therapy can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation, both of which are helpful in treating depression and anxiety. Massage therapy can also help to improve sleep quality, which is often impaired in people with depression and anxiety.
While massage therapy is not a cure and should not be used as a substitute for medical care, it can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Massage therapy is generally safe, with few side effects. If you have little or no experience with massage therapy, it may be helpful to talk to your doctor or mental health provider before starting massage therapy, as massage may not be appropriate for all people. If you do decide to try massage therapy, make sure to find a qualified massage therapist who has experience working with people with depression and anxiety.
As someone who has experience with anxiety myself, I am sensitive to the needs of those struggling with depression and anxiety. If you have questions before scheduling your session, please don't hesitate to contact me.