Can Sauna Sessions Help Alleviate Depression?

Research suggests that sauna sessions could be a promising treatment for individuals battling depression. A recent study conducted on 12 adults over an eight-week period showed significant improvements in their depressive symptoms.

The Study and Results

The study, led by clinical psychologist Ashley Mason from the UC San Francisco Osher Center for Integrative Health, involved treating participants with major depressive disorder using cognitive behavioral therapy in combination with regular sauna sessions. The saunas were heated to around 101.3 degrees Fahrenheit, and participants spent up to 140 minutes in them.

At the end of the trial, an impressive 11 out of the 12 participants were no longer classified as having major depressive disorder, indicating a substantial improvement in their mental health.

The Role of Body Temperature

One of the key theories behind the effectiveness of sauna therapy for depression revolves around body temperature. Studies have shown that individuals with depression often exhibit higher-than-average body temperatures. As symptoms improve, body temperature tends to normalize as well.

The concept is based on the idea that raising body temperatures may prompt the body's cooling mechanisms to operate more efficiently, potentially alleviating depressive symptoms.

Previous Research and Findings

Prior research in 2016 explored the impact of "infrared hyperthermia" on individuals with major depressive disorder. By increasing body temperatures in an infrared chamber, participants experienced a reduction in depression symptoms.

A subsequent study by Mason and her team analyzed data from over 20,000 individuals, confirming a correlation between body temperature and depression symptoms. Participants in the study also exhibited a 1.5-degree increase in body temperature during sauna sessions.

Future Implications and Recommendations

While more research is needed to solidify the link between sauna therapy and depression treatment, clinicians like Annie Wright are already advocating for its benefits. Wright suggests combining sauna therapy with cold plunges to further enhance mood and neurotransmitter production.

Ultimately, the goal is to gather enough clinical evidence to have insurance companies cover sauna therapy as a viable treatment option for individuals with depression.

As the medical community delves deeper into alternative therapies for mental health conditions, sauna therapy shows promise as a potential tool in combating depression.

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By: lvaranasi@insider.com (Lakshmi Varanasi)
Title: Can Sauna Sessions Help Alleviate Depression?
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/depression-treatment-sauna-temperature-2024-5
Published Date: Sun, 19 May 2024 17:50:33 +0000