Examining the short-term anxiolytic and antidepressant effect of Floatation-REST

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Neuroscience
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Floatation-REST (Reduced Environmental Stimulation Therapy) involves floating in Epsom salt-saturated water to minimize sensory input.
• Anxiety, stress, and depression are prevalent clinical conditions with significant impact on well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of Floatation-REST in attenuating symptoms of anxiety, stress, and depression in a clinical sample.
• To assess changes in self-reported affect, mood, and overall well-being following a 1-hour float session.

Main Methods:

• An open-label study involving 50 participants with anxiety and stress-related disorders, many with comorbid depression.
• Self-reported affect measures were collected immediately before and after a 1-hour Floatation-REST session.
• The primary outcome was the change in state anxiety measured by the Spielberger State Anxiety Inventory.

Main Results:

• Floatation-REST substantially reduced state anxiety (Cohen's d > 2) irrespective of diagnosis.
• Significant reductions in stress, muscle tension, pain, depression, and negative affect were reported.
• Participants experienced significant improvements in mood, including increased serenity, relaxation, and happiness (p < .0001).

Conclusions:

• Floatation-REST appears to be a safe and well-tolerated technique for transiently reducing anxiety and depression symptoms.
• The effects were more robust in anxious participants, approaching non-anxious levels post-float.
• Larger controlled trials are needed to replicate these promising findings for anxiety and depression treatment.