“Cheer up. Smile. Just put on a happy face and your mood will change.” Do you hear this from friends and loved ones whenever you feel down? Do you dismiss these so-called helpful words because you know you cannot feel better even if you feign happiness? Think again—even if you suffer from clinical depression!
New research published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research suggests that you can treat clinical depression by paralyzing key facial muscles. This study implies that your facial expressions can actually influence your mood. If you believe it, you should consider following through with the help of a doctor. The best choice here is to use Botox injections that use botulinum toxin. This substance can actually paralyze facial muscles, which in turn keeps you from frowning.
Light therapy is often used to treat depression by stimulating the retina and exciting the optic nerve in the eye. This sends signals to the brain to reduce seasonal depression. These Botox injections use facial feedback in the same way, and so they often have antidepressant effects.
To effectively use Botox to treat depression, the best idea is to include Botox in conjunction with conventional stress-relief therapies, such as traditional depression treatments such as therapy. While a therapist tries to help a patient reengage with the world and treat them mentally, administering Botox injections may have its benefits physically. As Botox makes it less likely for patients to frown, it will help treat the depression (if you believe in the above-mentioned study).
The process for a Botox injection is simple. First, we ensure that the area around your eyebrows is clean. Then, we insert a needle, which is very fine in order to reduce patient discomfort. It takes us only a couple of minutes to administer a Botox injection.
Now, if you’re contemplating receiving Botox injections, be sure to visit a certified facility, like our office. Here you will get to work with experts like Dr. Ali Totonchi. Whether you are receiving Botox to treat depression or for a more common reason, such as wrinkles, crow’s feet, or fine facial lines, we can help you make the right decision.
