It is not uncommon for someone to suffer from depression and not even know it. If your situation at work or home is especially difficult, this could be the case for you. 80% of individuals affected by depression do not receive any treatment. Patients diagnosed with depression increases by about 20% per year.
There is good news! According to a study of the treatment effects of massage on depressed people, “massage therapy is significantly associated with alleviation of depressive symptoms.”
While some people think of a massage as a treat to relax, the value of massage and effects on mental health are significant. As one noted Science writer, Paul Ingraham, explains, “The emotional value of touch and the effects on mood and mental health are so profound that patients really just cannot lose — good quality massage therapy is a worthwhile service for anyone who can afford it.”
Massage therapy does not cure depression. However, it can be an effective tool to add to the toolkit when approaching depression holistically.
Sources:
http://www.healthline.com/health/depression/statistics-infographic
