Treatment For Parkinson’s Disease: Dance Therapy And Depression
Movement can be a central part of everyday life, shaping how people function and express themselves in the world. For this reason, researchers have recently investigated alternative treatments involving movement that support mental and physical well-being. One form of treatment that has gained recognition is dance movement therapy. For people with Parkinson’s disease, dance therapy may improve motor function, emotional regulation, and overall quality of life.
Below, explore the principles of dance and movement therapy, its potential benefits for people with Parkinson’s disease, and how dance may help individuals process emotions, improve motor function, and engage in natural and accessible physical interventions.
What is dance movement therapy?
Dance movement therapy (DMT) is a form of psychotherapy that uses movement and dance to support emotional and physical health. Unlike traditional dance classes, which focus on technique, choreography, and quality of performance, DMT is centered around self-expression, guided movement, and the body-mind connection.
Similarly to traditional dance classes, dance movement therapy fosters rhythm and body awareness. Enhancing body awareness is a key part of many therapeutic interventions. Therapists trained in DMT use movement as a tool to help individuals improve motor function, process emotions, and express themselves through physical activity.
Principles of dance movement therapy for depression and mental health
Dance movement therapy is based on a few key principles, including the following:
- The mind-body connection: Body movement can allow individuals to process psychological experiences and foster positive emotions. Research shows that movement promotes positive affect.
- Non-verbal communication: Individuals can use movement as an alternative way to communicate or express feelings.
- Personalized movement exploration: There is no right or wrong way to move. Therapists refrain from judgment and encourage movement that is intuitive and supportive
- A holistic approach: DMT addresses mental, emotional, and physical well-being simultaneously
Types of dance movement therapy
Depending on the person's needs, expectations, and preferences, approaches to dance movement therapy may differ. Below are the potential approaches used:
- Creative movement: Dance therapists encourage spontaneous, expressive movement to process emotions. According to studies, creative dance increases resilience and well-being.
- Structured sequences: This approach can involve simple, guided movements that foster coordination and cognitive engagement.
- Partnered movement: This type of dance focuses on social interaction and cohesion through movement, often with a partner. This form might be used in couples therapy or support groups.
- Mirroring exercises: Mirroring may help individuals connect by imitating movements, promoting coordination and emotional attunement.
Dance movement therapy is an adaptable treatment method that can be used for various physical and mental health conditions, such as clinical depression and Parkinson’s disease.
Dance movement therapy for Parkinson's disease
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that significantly affects movement but can also impact mood, cognition, and life satisfaction. Dance therapy improves the quality of life in people with Parkinson’s disease and is being explored as a complementary treatment to improve physical symptoms associated with Parkinson’s. During dance therapy classes, individuals can express themselves and stay active in a structured way.
Symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease
There are a range of motor, non-motor, and other symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease. Understanding and identifying symptoms can help people seek effective care when necessary. Below are some symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease to be aware of:
- Tremors: Involuntary and uncontrollable shaking that can affect various parts of the body, such as the hands, legs, and head
- Bradykinesia: Slowed movement, which may include shuffling steps, reduced expressiveness, and difficulty standing up or turning
- Rigidity: Muscle stiffness and lack of flexibility that may cause discomfort
- Instability: Lack of balance and coordination, which may increase one’s risk of falling
- Depression and anxiety: Mood-related symptoms or co-occurring mental health conditions (research shows that 38% of patients with PD are treated for depression)
- Cognitive changes: Memory, thinking skills, and ability to concentrate, affected over time
Because Parkinson’s disease affects physical and emotional well-being, treatments that address movement and mental health together may be especially beneficial.
Dance for mental health and depressive symptoms
According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, anxiety and depression symptoms are common among individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Depression and anxiety are often linked to the emotional impact of managing a chronic condition and the neurological changes that affect mood regulation. Dance movement therapy provides a creative outlet for individuals dealing with mental health symptoms to process emotions, socialize, and experience a sense of fulfillment.
Research shows combining music and dance can enhance cognitive function, mood, and social connection. By focusing on movement in a way that is natural and enjoyable, people may experience relief from symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and Parkinson’s disease. In addition, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), structured psychological interventions such as dance therapy are growing in importance. Research and randomized controlled trials on dance movement therapy highlight statistically significant differences in depression reduction, particularly for those with moderate depression.
Dance for motor and non-motor symptoms
As well as supporting mental health, dance movement therapy may help individuals with Parkinson’s manage motor and non-motor symptoms.
Positive brain changes
Studies have shown that engaging in movement activities like dance can foster the brain’s ability to form new neural connections. By stimulating various regions of the brain, dance improves both motor and cognitive function in people with Dementia.
Additionally, music and rhythm-based movement can stimulate areas of the brain responsible for movement control, which can help individuals with Parkinson’s disease maintain better control over their movements. Research using control groups has found that individuals participating in dance movement therapy show significant improvement in movement coordination.
How dance, movement, and exercise influence mood
Physical activity can be key to mental well-being by influencing hormones, neurotransmitters, and overall brain function. Engaging in dance, movement, and physical activity activates brain areas linked with reward and pleasure.
Emotional regulation
For people with Parkinson’s disease, emotional regulation may become more challenging as symptoms progress. Dance movement therapy incorporates elements that encourage emotional expression, relaxation, and social interaction, which may help individuals stay balanced and emotionally connected. Through movement, individuals may be able to:
- Release pent-up emotions and frustration
- Experience moments of creative expression and joy
- Strengthen relationships with loved ones through shared movement
Research suggests that dance movement therapy may be beneficial for emotional regulation. Sessions are adaptable and accommodate people of various physical abilities and emotional needs.
Can you perform dance therapy online?
For individuals looking for convenient and accessible therapy, online dance therapy may be an option. Virtual-movement-based therapy sessions allow individuals to participate from home in group or one-on-one settings with a therapist. This option may benefit people with Parkinson's who have mobility issues or transportation difficulties. Online appointments can be made at any time and from any location. You can arrange sessions with online dance movement therapists using a platform like BetterHelp.
Mental health treatment techniques used in online dance therapy
Online dance movement therapy may incorporate the following:
- Mirroring exercises: Individuals mirror the therapist’s movements, creating a sense of connection
- Guided movement: Therapists guide individuals through exercises that encourage self-expression
- Breath and body awareness: Participants focus on moving consciously and mindfully
- Music and rhythm-based exercises: Movement to the sound of music to encourage involvement and engagement
While online dance therapy may differ from in-person sessions, this option allows clients to connect with dance, movement, and expression from any location.
Research on mental health treatment for those with Parkinson’s disease and depression
Online therapy can be an accessible way for people with Parkinson’s disease to find personalized health care, especially as motor symptoms progress. A study conducted during the pandemic shows that online dance therapy may enhance health, well-being, and social engagement for Parkinson’s disease patients. Furthermore, online therapy may help individuals maintain motor function and emotional well-being.
The American Dance Therapy Association recognizes dance movement therapists as trained professionals who can guide individuals through dance therapy sessions, both in-person and online, to address symptoms of major depressive disorder and Parkinson’s disease. While in-person remains a beneficial option, online programs provide an effective alternative for those with difficulty traveling to appointments.
Takeaway
Research continues to explore the benefits of both in-person and online dance therapy. Whether through guided movement, structured therapy sessions, or creative dance expression, dance movement therapy offers individuals the chance to engage with movement in a way that supports the body-mind connection.
What is the benefit of dance therapy?
Dance interventions for any mental or physical health condition provide the physical integration of exercise alongside the positive effect of dance on psychological health. In a meta-analysis of eight studies from Asia and multiple studies from other countries, a random effects model found existing evidence that dance therapy could decrease anxiety and depression and improve the quality of life of those who participated in the intervention groups.
The systematic reviews concluded that there was a therapeutic relationship between dance and reduced depression scores and depression symptoms. The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) was used for group and subgroup analysis in the exercise interventions. In addition, a sensitivity analysis and bias assessment were conducted to ensure the quality of the clinical settings in which the creative arts therapies were offered. Overall, dance therapy seems to be a promising option for increasing self-esteem and can promote emotional well-being in those with musculoskeletal disorders and depression. Other effective support options could include tai chi, art therapy, and energy therapy.
Does dancing help mental health?
Dancing can be beneficial for mental health, especially in the form of dance therapy. Psychology defines dance therapy as a mental health treatment designed to support clients in learning therapeutic movements, such as intuitive dance or mirrored movements. Dance therapy is generally considered significantly effective for depression and anxiety, which are the most common mental health conditions.
How does dance therapy help with depression?
Dance therapy is effective for depression because it involves expressive movement and is a form of aerobic exercise. Aerobic exercise increases feel-good chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters, including those like dopamine and endorphins. These chemicals provide a mood boost. Pairing this physical activity with music can offer the benefits of music in healing depression. Because music is one of humanity’s oldest methods of connecting with emotion, lyrics, melodies, and beats can profoundly connect with individuals, leading to emotional release.
What kind of issues can dance therapy help with?
Dance therapy may be helpful for many mental and physical health conditions, but studies have primarily looked at this treatment for dementia, Parkinson’s disease, depression, and anxiety. Other conditions that this treatment may support could include eating disorders, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Talk to a dance therapist for a consultation if you want to try this therapy. You don’t have to have a mental illness to go to sessions, as dance therapy may also be helpful for stress. Healthy adults can also take part.
What are the limitations of dance therapy?
Dance therapy may not be the best option for every case. For example, some people may have physical limitations that make dancing difficult or painful. In these cases, they may want to try music therapy or art therapy instead. For those who don’t resonate with the idea of dancing, there are over 400 therapeutic modalities for mental health that can be practiced, so consult multiple therapists to find a method you connect with.
What are the contraindications for dance therapy?
Talk to your doctor to understand whether dance therapy would be an unhealthy or dangerous option for you. Some people may not respond well to this treatment, especially those who struggle with physical movement or are looking for a more talk-therapy-oriented approach.
Who needs dance therapy?
No one necessarily “needs” dance therapy, though some people may benefit from this treatment. If you think dance therapy might be helpful to you or a loved one, consider consulting a therapist in your area or online to explore options. They can talk to you more about the research behind dance therapy and what sessions look like in their practice, as each therapist may use different techniques.
What does a dance therapy session look like?
Dance therapists can use different techniques and dancing methods. Common techniques include interpretive dance, group dance, and mirroring movements. You don’t have to have any experience to do dance therapy, and you don’t have to follow any instructions if you don’t want to. This type of therapy is often moldable to the client’s needs and preferences. Consult a therapist to learn how they run their dance therapy practice.
Does insurance pay for dance therapy?
Insurance may pay for dance therapy in some circumstances. Check with your insurance company to find out if the dance therapist you want to visit is within your network and covered. You may also be able to submit a superbill to get reimbursed for costs, especially if a doctor recommends the treatment for a mental illness or physical condition.
How effective is dance movement therapy?
Dance movement therapy has been found to be significantly effective in treating conditions like depression and anxiety, especially in those with Parkinson’s disease and dementia. Studies like the one above show these results, exploring the many studies in different countries that have found this treatment method helpful.
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