Reduction of depressive symptoms caused by primary disorders, postpartum depression, and MDD has been reported across clinical trials. Twice-weekly massage began to show continual improvement in symptoms at 4 weeks. Frequent massage may help to manage neurohormones associated with low mood in addition to psychological interventions.

Grand Valley State University

Massage therapy is often recommended as a complementary treatment because it has been shown to relieve stress, depression, and anxiety due to the reduction of cortisol levels. Increased human contact can also stimulate the release of oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin. 

Mental Health and Massage Therapy

Rapaport, M. H., Schettler, P. J., Larson, E. R., Carroll, D., Sharenko, M., Nettles, J., & Kinkead, B. (2018). Massage Therapy for Psychiatric Disorders. FOCUS, 16(1), 24–31. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.focus.20170043

Massage Therapy for Psychiatric Disorders.

EEG studies demonstrate an increase in frontal delta power (brain waves) and a decrease in frontal alpha and beta power. This change in neural activity resulted in greater relaxation and alertness. Studies indicate that massaging c fibers (somatic nerve endings) stimulates areas of the brain associated with pleasure and reward and regulates stress responses in the body, which can enhance immune functioning.

The Neurobiology of Massage Therapy

The Impact of Massage Therapy on Depression

Massage is beneficial for managing daily anxiety as well as distress caused by anxiety disorders. Participants in massage therapy studies reported lower scores on the GAD-7, reduced need for anxiety medications, lessened pain perception, and increased self-confidence.

The Impact of Massage Therapy on Anxiety

Massage therapy has been associated with the improvement of sleep quality and length for those with insomnia, stabilization of behavior for dementia and better self-regulation for those with autism. Sleep, mood, and regulation are areas that massage can enhance. 

The Impact of Massage Therapy on Other Psychiatric Symptoms

Therapists and practitioners can both promote massage-based mind-body interventions by:
- Teaching clients how to self-massage as a coping mechanism
- Encouraging mindfulness and active client participation during massage sessions
- Establishing collaborative communication between mental health professionals and massage therapists to continue care
- Reccomending a daily movement plan

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