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Posted on: September 18, 2017
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Seasonal Affective Disorder, which is also known as SAD, is a form of depression that is related to seasonal changes. It can develop at any time of the year. However, it typically develops in the fall, and the symptoms peak during the winter months. Symptoms of depression include low energy, sleeping problems, concentration problems, weight gain, oversleeping and appetite changes.
Using Massage Therapy to Treat Depression
If you have been suffering from SAD, then you may want to consider seeing a massage therapist. There was a study done that involved 500 people who suffered from SAD. They received one session of massage therapy. The results of the study showed that the subjects' cortisol levels decreased by 53 percent immediately after receiving the massage.
Cortisol is a hormone that increases your blood pressure and suppresses your immune system. The results of the study also showed that a massage can also boost dopamine and serotonin. These are chemicals that can naturally boost your mood.
There was another study that involved 786 people. The study was performed by the E-Da Hospital and College of Medicine. The results of the study showed that subjects had a reduction in SAD symptoms. The researchers concluded that the massage affected the subjects sympathetic nervous system. This helped boost their mood and reduced their anxiety.
Additionally, there was a study done on veterans that were published in "Military Medicine." The subjects received regular massages for eight weeks. The subjects noticed a reduction in SAD and anxiety symptoms.
Massages have also been shown to reduce stress. SAD and stress are linked. People who are chronically-stressed are more likely to be depressed. Seeing a massage therapist helps alleviate your stress by helping you relax.
