Dancing can help ease the symptoms of depression, promote self-understanding, and support personal growth, according to researchers from the University of Eastern Finland, who combined approaches from psychology, social psychology, and the arts. The study was published in the journal Narrative Works.

“Depression is a serious public health issue, and there is an urgent need for complementary therapeutic methods. We know that physical activity helps, but incorporating expressive elements such as dance makes the process more engaging and profound,” said Professor of Adolescent Psychiatry Tommi Tolmunen.

Dance reduces levels of stress hormones such as cortisol and noradrenaline, increases dopamine associated with pleasure and motivation, enhances body awareness, and provides a means of expressing emotions that are difficult to articulate in words.

The study involved seven adolescents with mild or moderate depression. As part of the program, they created a digital dance performance reflecting their “desired future.” The process involved improvisation and 3D motion capture, allowing participants to observe themselves from the outside and reflect on their mental state.

Results showed that participation in the project led to a reduction in depressive symptoms, an increase in self-esteem, and an improved ability to recognize and experience bodily emotions. Key contributing factors included an atmosphere of trust, a sense of belonging, and peer support within the group.

“Depression often disrupts the perception of one’s bodily sensations — what we call interoception. Through dance, participants were able to reconnect with their bodies and rediscover their sense of self,” explained Associate Professor Hanna Pohjola, senior researcher at the University of Eastern Finland.

According to the researchers, the opportunity to express feelings through dance and see themselves from a different perspective helped the adolescents better understand the causes of their condition and begin a process of self-realization.

“For the participants, it became a step toward a meaningful and fulfilling life — a sense of purpose and joy in their own movement,” Pohjola concluded.

The researchers believe that integrating dance-based art forms into psychotherapy programs could be a promising approach to support people with depressive disorders.

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