Abstract
This mixed-methods study analyzed the body image quality of 143 patients with depression. The participants received a 20 × 75 min dance movement therapy (DMT) group treatment, sessions twice a week. Body Image Assessment (BIA) was the data collection tool, with pre-, post-, and 3-mos follow-up assessments. Pre-intervention body image quality characteristics were low energy and activity levels, discomfort, shame and disgust toward the body, tension in social interactions. On the BIA scores, a statistical method of Latent Profile Analysis was utilized to identify participant profiles in the data. The two identified profiles were participant with initial negative body image and participant with initial neutral body image. Depression symptoms were measured with BDI, and symptoms decreased for both participant profiles following the DMT intervention. The neutral profile participants had a significantly lower depression level, better energy level, and more frequently used mindfulness factors of acting aware, non-judgmentality and non-reactivity (measured with FFMQ). Findings suggest a systemic interaction between depression symptoms, body image, attachment style, activity level, and mindfulness skills. In an interactive DMT setting it is possible to address all of these factors simultaneously.
Highlights
Depression is considered a mental health condition, but many of its symptoms effect the body
The qualitative analysis of the Body Image Assessment (BIA) responses at the preintervention measurement showed that the main characteristic of the body image of a depression sufferer was negativity of experience
They indicate a body image loaded with tensions and discomfort, a wish to avoid bodily sensations, agonies in both social situations and in situations of aloneness
Summary
Depression is considered a mental health condition, but many of its symptoms effect the body. ICD-10 (WHO, 2016) identifies depression symptoms as lowered mood, reduced energy, and decreased activity. Patients show a reduced capacity for enjoyment, interest, and concentration. Sometimes loss of libido and psychomotor retardation. These symptoms in their physicality are all linked to the way an individual experiences her body, both physically and emotionally. It is surprising, how little we know about how a depressed patient experiences her body
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call