FaReWell Depression - Facial Exercise Program to Treat Depression

Activity of the facial musculature expresses emotions, but also generates proprioceptive signals to the emotional brain that maintain and reinforce the expressed emotions. This has been described by Charles Darwin and William James in the facial feedback hypothesis.

Studies have shown that interruption of facial feedback by the injection of botulinum toxin into the corrugator and procerus muscles, which express negative emotions like sadness, anger, and fear, can reduce the symptoms of depression.

In the present study we investigate, if similar effects can be achieved by a relaxing massage of these and other muscles that are associated with the expression of negative emotions and if strengthening exercises of muscles that express positive emotions, the zygomaticus and orbicularis oculi muscles, can contribute to the rehabilitation of positive emotionality in depression. After instruction by a physiotherapist, participants will practice the exercises daily for 15 minutes.

Inclusion criteria

• Mild to moderate unipolar depression
• Stable treatment for at least 6 weeks

Exclusion criteria

• Organic mental disorders
• Mental disorders due to psychoactive substance use
• Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders
• Previous cosmetic procedures (botulinum toxin, fillers, lifting)
• Facial palsy
• Facial skin disorders