Does fascia therapy help with depression?

Research in recent years has been able to prove this many times over: There is a close interaction between the body and the psyche. This interaction also appears to play a role in the development of depression.

For example, a study by Prof. Dr Johannes Michalak, Chair of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy II at Witten/Herdecke University (UW/H), and his team showed that the muscular connective tissue (fascia) of depressed people is stiffer and less elastic than that of non-depressed people.

They also found that brief fascia treatment had a favourable effect on the mood and memory processes of depressed people.

About the study

"Stiffness and low elasticity of the muscular connective tissue may mean that depressed people are less able to detach themselves from their negative state. We now want to go one step further," says Prof. Michalak, "and investigate whether fascia therapy carried out over eight weeks can loosen the muscular connective tissue and whether this has a positive long-term effect on the psychological symptoms of depressed people."

Connection to group therapy at the ZPP possible

Michalak explains the framework conditions for participating in the study: "We meet with the participants four times during the course of the treatment and show them the exercises. They can do them independently at home for around ten minutes three times a week for eight weeks. We are always available to answer any questions." After this time, it is also possible to take part in group therapy at the Centre for Mental Health and Psychotherapy (ZPP) at the UW/H.

People who are acutely suicidal, have an addiction disorder, psychotic symptoms or a severe personality disorder or are currently undergoing psychotherapeutic treatment cannot take part.

The first results are expected to be published in early summer 2024.

Further information

If you are interested in participating in the fascia therapy study, please contact: lea.hagn@uni-wh.de

Further information is also available on our project page.