How Does Massage Help Depression?

Massage is utilized as a means of relieving symptoms and complications like high blood pressure, diabetes and anemia. However, it has also proven an effective means of combating depression. This is done through applying differing levels of pressure to certain portions of the body, which in turn stimulates pain receptors, brain waves and the release of chemicals.

Effects

• Massage has been used to treat symptoms like stress and anxiety as well as depression. It does this by stimulating nerve receptors linked directly to the nervous system. The manipulation of these receptors releases chemicals into the body. For example, the mood-enhancing chemicals serotonin and dopamine are increased during massage. When increased, these chemicals are directly related to the body's sensations of happiness. Massage also decreases the body's levels of cortisol and adrenaline, chemicals associated with the sensation of stress.

  Brain activity is directly affected by massage. For example, the amount of alpha brain waves is increased during massage. Alpha brain waves are associated with relaxation and promote a sense of calm when increased. Massage also boosts the immune system, which can prevent illness and lead to a better quality of life.

  People who are undergoing pain or soreness will often opt for massage. This is because massage helps promote circulation and dulls pain receptors, thus reducing the sensation of soreness. Since chronic pain in the muscles or bones is a common cause of depression, massage can directly combat depression through pain relief.

Process

• If you are currently suffering from depression, speak with your doctor. He may suggest that you see a professional masseuse. Contact the masseuse to set up an appointment. Appointments differ in content and length, but can be catered to meet your exact needs (i.e. fully body, head, back, legs). During a typical session, a masseuse will apply one or several techniques, such as acupressure, deep tissue and reflexology. Massage oil and aromatherapy may also be administered to help reduce friction and create a more relaxing atmosphere. Be sure to discuss with the masseuse your symptoms as well as any portions of your body undergoing discomfort. This will better help her to cater the session to address those portions of your body experiencing pain or soreness.

  Note that while massage is often an effective method of relief from depression, it cannot cure it. Massage should be relied upon only as a means of coping with depression and improving quality of life.