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Can Massage Help with Depression? A 2018 Review Says Yes—Especially When Combined with Therapy

  • Writer: Lauren Walker
    Lauren Walker
  • 13 hours ago
  • 3 min read

When we think about managing depression, we often think of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes like exercise or diet. But according to a 2018 review published in Frontiers in Psychology, there’s another, less conventional approach that’s proving to be surprisingly effective: massage therapy.


The review highlighted massage as a valuable complementary treatment for depression, particularly when used alongside psychotherapy. It’s a fascinating—and hopeful—look at how touch-based therapies can support emotional healing.

Let’s explore what the science says and how massage could play a bigger role in mental health care.

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What the Review Looked At

The Frontiers in Psychology review analyzed a range of studies examining the effects of massage therapy on depressive symptoms. The findings were clear: people who received regular massage experienced significant reductions in depression scores, especially when massage was combined with other therapeutic approaches like talk therapy (psychotherapy).


Key Takeaways:

  • Massage therapy led to statistically significant improvements in mood and well-being.

  • The effects were most pronounced when massage was used as a complement—not a replacement—to traditional treatments.

  • Benefits were seen across various groups, including people with clinical depression, postpartum depression, and stress-related mood disorders.


Why Does Massage Help with Depression?

Massage may not be a "cure" for depression, but it influences several key systems in the body that play a major role in mood regulation. Here's how:


1. Reduces Cortisol (Stress Hormone)

High levels of cortisol are often linked to depression. Massage has been shown to lower cortisol levels, helping the body shift from a stressed state into one of relaxation and recovery.


2. Boosts Serotonin and Dopamine

Massage increases the production of serotonin and dopamine—neurotransmitters that help regulate mood and promote feelings of well-being.


3. Promotes Physical Connection and Safety

For individuals struggling with depression, especially those feeling isolated or emotionally numb, the simple act of safe, therapeutic touch can help re-establish a sense of connection, trust, and grounding in the body.


4. Relieves Physical Symptoms of Depression

Depression often manifests physically: muscle tension, fatigue, headaches, and disrupted sleep. Massage directly addresses these symptoms, helping to break the cycle between physical discomfort and emotional distress.


The Power of a Combined Approach

One of the most important insights from the review is that massage therapy is most effective when combined with psychotherapy. Why?

  • Talk therapy addresses thought patterns, emotional processing, and behavior change.

  • Massage therapy addresses the body, nervous system, and emotional regulation through touch.

Together, they form a more holistic treatment—supporting both the mind and body in the healing process.


This is especially valuable for individuals who may struggle to express themselves verbally or feel disconnected from their emotions. Massage can provide a non-verbal path to healing that complements the insights gained through talk therapy.


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Is Massage Therapy Right for You?

Massage may be a helpful addition to your depression treatment plan if you:

  • Struggle with stress-related physical symptoms (e.g. tension, fatigue, poor sleep)

  • Feel emotionally "shut down" or disconnected from your body

  • Are already in therapy and want to explore complementary options

  • Prefer holistic or non-pharmaceutical approaches to mental health

💡 Note: Always consult with your healthcare provider or therapist before adding new treatments, especially if you have complex mental health needs.


Final Thoughts

The 2018 Frontiers in Psychology review gives scientific support to something many people have intuitively felt: massage therapy can be deeply healing for both body and mind.

While it’s not a standalone treatment for depression, when used alongside psychotherapy, it offers a powerful, evidence-backed approach to support emotional well-being. In a world where mental health solutions are often fragmented or one-size-fits-all, massage therapy offers something refreshingly human: compassionate, intentional touch that helps people feel seen, safe, and supported.


Source:Rapaport, M. H., et al. (2018). “The Impact of Massage Therapy on Function in Pain Populations—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.” Frontiers in Psychology, 9:163.


Relish Well-ness to the Core with our Relaxing Massage Sessions: Wellness Rituals offers effective alternative healing therapies such as Thai Yoga Massage or our Table Top Stretch Sessions. This unique healing therapy incorporates Yoga, pressure points, and reflexology, aiming to reduce body fatigue.


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