Depression is a mental health issue that requires appropriate treatment. Scientists continue to conduct research on the treatment of depression. A recent study found that temperature therapy, such as sauna or ice therapy, could help relieve depression symptoms. Is temperature therapy effective in alleviating depression symptoms? Check out the following review.
Depression is a prevalent mental health issue among adults, typically treated with antidepressants and psychotherapy. While effective, antidepressants can cause side effects such as weight gain, sexual dysfunction, headaches, and anxiety, impacting quality of life. As a result, many seek alternative therapies like herbal medicine, meditation, and yoga.
Temperature therapy to relieve depression
Depression is a common mental health problem among adults and is typically treated with antidepressants and psychotherapy. While antidepressants are effective, they can cause weight gain, sexual dysfunction, headaches, and anxiety, all of which have an impact on quality of life. As a result, people suffering from depression turn to alternative therapies such as herbal medicine, meditation, and yoga.
Recent research looks into temperature-based therapies, such as saunas or ice therapy, as potential alternatives. According to studies, people with depression have higher body temperatures. It's unclear what causes people with depression to have higher temperatures, but experts believe it could be due to inflammation in the body's tissue system.
When depression subsides, body temperatures return to normal, implying a link between temperature and mood regulation. Other studies revealed that temperature-based interventions, such as saunas, can help with depression symptoms. Experts argue that when exposed to heat, the body will naturally cool itself.
Sauna therapy, which involves exposure to high temperatures that widen blood vessels and improve circulation, has shown promise in treating depression symptoms. The body will relax, the pain will go away, and your mood will improve. Following that, the body will attempt to regulate its temperature, thereby alleviating depression symptoms.
Similarly, cold therapies such as soaking in cold water or using ice cubes have been shown to improve mood. Other research, however, suggests that heat exposure may have longer-term benefits. As a result, researchers continue to investigate the benefits of sauna therapy as an alternative treatment for depression.
Alternative therapies for depression
While medication and psychotherapy are effective treatments, some individuals seek alternatives with fewer side effects, such as the following:
- Herbal medicine: Remedies such as St. John's wort and gingko biloba are believed to alleviate depression symptoms. These herbal medicines are typically consumed by drinking. Although many people use these herbal medicines as an alternative therapy for depression, their efficacy needs to be further studied
- Acupuncture: This therapy involves inserting fine, solid needles into specific points on the body to alleviate pain and improve blood circulation
- Exercise: Exercise such as walking, swimming, and running regularly for at least 150 minutes per week can reduce depression symptoms and improve mood
- Meditation: Meditation is a method of relaxation and introspection. You can meditate for at least ten minutes per day
- Breathing exercises: Taking slow, deep breaths and then exhaling can help you relax and clear your mind
While alternative therapies complement traditional treatments, more research is needed to determine their effectiveness in treating depression. Consultation with mental health professionals, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, can help tailor treatment plans to individual needs.
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- dr Nadia Opmalina
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