Botox as a Treatment for Depression?
So given that our expressions are a reflection of our mood and vice versa, I suppose it was only a matter of time before someone took a serious look (no pun intended!) at how cosmetic procedures might serve as a treatment for depression.
Dermatologist Eric Finzi, M.D., Ph.D., conducted a very small pilot study evaluating Botox injections and improvement of depression. Ten depressed patients (9 diagnosed with depression; 1 diagnosed with bipolar disorder) were treated by having Botox injected into the lines between the eyebrows. Dr. Finzi reports that 9 of the 10 patients were depression free two months following treatment.
This study is interesting. It made me think, “Huh?” But I’m personally not running to schedule a Botox injection. I’ll risk a smile and I have been known to jump on the bed to improve my mood, but I need to see a whole lot more scientific rigor and evidence before I’ll let someone near my face with a needle. (We can talk about phobias in another conversation.)
What do you think about facial feedback? I’ve tried to force a smile now and then. I tend to be a bit intense so it usually comes off more as a grimace. Then my kids tease me and we all end up laughing anyway. ~ Kimberly
Comments
A permanent smile (like the ‘Joker’). Now, that is another marketing scheme. As if Botox needs another one. Fact is, a person that is always happy is a sign of mental illness.
I’ve had some success with ’smile therapy’. I keep pics of smiling faces next to my mirror. I try to smile when I see them and then look at my reflection.
I don’t think I’d go as far as modifying my face to do it, though.
A person who is always smiling seems foolish, but a positive “attitude of gratitude” is always helpful.
This is just another sales gimmick. Snake oil, and nothing more.
Cant say it has done much for depression, but has done wonders for my chronic headaches!!