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We don't exactly know how massage works to alleviate depression and anxiety. For many years, it was thought that massage reduced the stress hormone cortisol and this brought about the improvement. However, more recent research has shown that massage does not reduce cortisol in the way in which we thought. No one is exactly sure how massage effects change. Some hypotheses exist but do not have sufficient data to support them. Specific effects on the nervous system, hormones, neurotransmitters, etc., are still under investigation. We know that humans are biologically wired to respond to touch. Perhaps it is the combined effect of focused, caring attention and tactile stimulation, or perhaps the muscular relaxation signals the brain to shift to a more calm state. Fortunately, we do not need to understand precisely how this change comes about in order to benefit from it. As we learn more over time, it may help us understand how to optimize massage therapy's effects and help massage gain acceptance as a treatment for anxiety and depression.
Christopher Moyer, Ph.D., is a psychologist who has made significant contributions to the field of massage therapy research. His paper, Affective Massage Therapy, published in the peer-reviewed International Journal of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, describes some of the history of massage therapy research and, in particular, examines the research on massage and anxiety and depression. Moyer was co-editor of the book Massage Therapy, Integrating Research and Practice and wrote the chapter on anxiety and depression. In the "recommendations" section of the chapter, Moyer states:
Massage therapists can be confident that MT has been scientifically demonstrated to reduce anxiety and depression, and that the benefits are substantial. Indeed, there are probably no other effects in MT research that have been as consistently demonstrated as these mental health benefits.
Moyer takes care to point out that, like any treatment, individual responses will vary and massage therapy will not work the same for everyone. We still do not know the optimal amount and pattern of treatments to get the greatest effect.
Depression and anxiety can be very serious and massage therapy should not be a replacement for proper medical attention when it is needed. Clients and therapists alike should recognize its limitations. However, one of the advantages of massage therapy is the ease of access. No prescription is needed and one does not typically need to wait weeks or months for an appointment. Gentle massage should have no detrimental side effects and social stigma is generally absent. Mild benefit is often felt immediately and even greater benefit can come from a series of sessions. All these factors may make it an appealing resource for the person living with anxiety or depression.
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