How Massage Can Help People Suffering from Depression

Depression is a debilitating mental illness that affects millions of people worldwide. It can lead to feelings of sadness, despair, and hopelessness, and can negatively impact a person's overall quality of life. Many people suffering from depression turn to prescription drugs to help alleviate their symptoms, but these drugs often come with harmful side effects. Fortunately, there is growing evidence that massage therapy can be an effective alternative or complementary treatment for depression. In this article, we will explore the benefits of massage therapy for individuals dealing with depression.

What is depression?

Depression is a mental health disorder that affects millions of people around the world. It is characterized by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable. Depression can also cause physical symptoms, such as lethargy, appetite changes, and sleep disturbances. There are different types of depression, including major depressive disorder, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and persistent depressive disorder (PDD).

How does massage therapy work?

Massage therapy involves applying pressure and rubbing muscles, tendons, and ligaments to help relieve tension and promote relaxation. It has been shown to increase levels of the hormone serotonin, which can improve mood and reduce feelings of anxiety. Massage therapy has also been linked to lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which can lead to feelings of relaxation.

The benefits of massage therapy for depression:

Alleviates symptoms:

Studies have shown that massage therapy can help reduce symptoms of depression, such as anxiety, lethargy, and overall mood.

Reduces stress:

Massage therapy has been shown to lower levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress.

Promotes relaxation:

Massages help to reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation.

Increases levels of serotonin: Massage therapy boosts the production of serotonin, a hormone associated with improved mood.

Precautions to consider:

There are certain precautions that individuals suffering from depression should consider before undergoing massage therapy. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any treatment involving massage therapy. In some cases, massage therapy may exacerbate or worsen depression symptoms.

Conclusion:

Massage therapy has been shown to be an effective complementary treatment for individuals dealing with depression. It can alleviate symptoms, reduce stress, promote relaxation, and increase levels of serotonin in the body. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any massage therapy treatment. With proper care and precautions, massage therapy can be a beneficial tool for those seeking relief from depression.

Sources:

American Massage Therapy Association. (2021). Massage for Depression & Anxiety. Retrieved from https://www.amtamassage.org/research/Massage-Therapy-Research-Roundup/Research-Roundup/Massage-for-Depression-Anxiety.html

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2019). Massage Therapy for Health Purposes. Retrieved from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/massage-therapy-for-health-purposes

Smith, C. A., & Hay, P. P. (2008). Acupuncture and massage for depression: A randomized controlled trial. Australian Journal of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, 3(1), 13-19.The Power of Massage Therapy: How It Can Help People Suffering from Depression