Since ancient times, cryotherapy has remained an effective method for pain relief and workout recovery. However, recent research has also revealed its mental health benefits as well.
Cold therapy has been linked to reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety. It also has the tendency to improve mood and enhance sleep quality. These mental benefits of cryotherapy are fueling its demand significantly.
According to Coherent Market Insights, the global cryotherapy industry size is set to reach US$ 623.4 million by 2030. Global demand for cryotherapy will likely increase at a CAGR of 11.3% during the forecast period. This is attributable to growing adoption of cold therapy for its physical and mental health benefits.
What is Cryotherapy in Mental Health Treatment?
Cryotherapy involves using extreme cold temperatures to treat various medical conditions, relieve pain, and promote healing. It is also rising into prominence for its mental health benefits. Growing adoption of cryotherapy for mental health enhancements is becoming popular.
Mental health benefits of cryotherapy are making it popular. Cold therapy or cooling therapy triggers physiological responses like release of endorphins. This, in turn, helps to improve mental health by reducing anxiety, stress, and depression symptoms.
Key Mental Health Benefits of Cryotherapy
- Cryotherapy for Anxiety Treatment
A key benefit of cryotherapy that tops our list is its ability to lower anxiety. Cold therapy triggers the release of endorphins and norepinephrine. These chemicals can improve mood, enhance focus, and reduce stress.
Cold therapy has the tendency to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. It does this by activating the autonomic nervous system. As a result, cryotherapy is becoming an attractive option for people experiencing regular chronic anxiety or panic attacks.
- Cryotherapy and Depression Management
Cryotherapy is emerging as a promising tool for managing depression. Emerging research suggests that cold therapy can increase serotonin and dopamine levels, neurotransmitters associated with emotional stability and happiness. As a result, it could help people manage mild to moderate depression.
Cold therapy has positive effects on mental health. It can improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression like sadness, fatigue, and low energy.
- Cryotherapy for Stress Relief
Chronic stress is generally linked to high cortisol levels. Cryotherapy has been shown to lower cortisol levels. By doing so, it prevents the negative effects of prolonged stress.
Regular cryotherapy can help people manage their stress more effectively. It can also reduce chances of chronic stress by stimulating body’s natural stress response.
- Cryotherapy for Mood Enhancement
Another key benefit of cold therapy is the immediate mood boost it provides. It stimulates the release of happy hormones or feel-good hormones (dopamine, serotonin, endorphins, etc.). These hormones play a vital role in managing mood and overall happiness.
- Cryotherapy for Improving Sleep
Many people opt for cryotherapy to improve their sleep quality. It helps regulate sleep patterns by increasing melatonin production and lowering cortisol. Growing adoption of cryotherapy for relaxation is also gaining traction.
