Alexandria McKenzie, Massage Therapist
100 Bridge Street Suite B1, Hampton, VA 23669
757-598-3387
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Depression
What is it?
Depression is a mood disorder with symptoms lasting at least two weeks. Symptoms can affect how you feel, think, and handle daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working. You may feel
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Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
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Feelings of hopelessness, or pessimism
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Irritability
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Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
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Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
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Decreased energy or fatigue
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Moving or talking more slowly
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Feeling restless or having trouble sitting still
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Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
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Difficulty sleeping, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
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Appetite and/or weight changes
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Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
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Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause and/or that do not ease even with treatment
Depression is one of the most common disorders in the U.S and can be a result of various factors (biological, genetic, environmental, or psychological). While it can occur any any age, it often happens in adulthood. It can occur with other illnesses (diabetes or heart disease for example). Risk factors can include
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Personal for family history of depression
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Major life changes, trauma, or stress
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Certain physical illnesses and medication
264
More than 264 million people suffer from depression
16.2
16.2 million adults have at least one depressive episode in a given year.
1 of 5
1 out of 5 adults experience mental illness
Massage for Depression
Massage can be a great complementary treatment
According to a study by Dr. Ho, massage is frequently associated with alleviated depressive symptoms.
Benefits of massage for depression include:
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Improved mood
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Improved sleep
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Decrease fatigue
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Reducing stress
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Increasing relaxation
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decreases muscle tension
References & Studies:
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Massage Can Reduce Symptoms of Depression | AMTA (amtamassage.org)
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Effectiveness of massage therapy on fatigue and pain in patients with multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis - PMC (nih.gov)
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The Effect of Single-Dose Massage Session on Autonomic Activity, Mood, and Affective Responses in Major Depressive Disorder - PubMed (nih.gov)
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Treatment effects of massage therapy in depressed people: a meta-analysis - PubMed (nih.gov)
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Massage Therapy for Psychiatric Disorders - PMC (nih.gov)