Archive · 21 Jul 2026
Salsa Classes Reduce Depression and Anxiety in Oxford Trial
A recent study from the University of Oxford found that taking salsa classes for eight weeks can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in young adults.
The study involved 121 participants who were either given salsa classes or put on a waitlist.
By the end, those who danced showed a significant drop in depressive symptoms, as well as reduced social anxiety and increased happiness.
Experts believe that dancing together helps activate mirror neurons, which create a connection between partners and lower stress levels.
Additionally, the trust and touch involved in partner dancing contribute to a calming effect.
However, the researchers caution that more studies are needed to fully understand the benefits.
A psychologist, Khushali Gala, supports these findings based on her own clinical experience and recommends introducing dance therapy gradually and with consent.
A randomised controlled trial from the University of Oxford found that salsa classes can reduce depressive symptoms in young adults.
Participants showed a 2.45-point drop on the PHQ-9 scale, along with reduced social anxiety and increased happiness.
Experts believe that dancing together activates mirror neurons, promoting connection and reducing stress.
Trust and touch in partner dancing contribute to a calming effect, but the therapy must be introduced carefully.
Researchers caution that further studies are needed to validate the findings.
- Who
- 121 young adults aged 18 to 24 with mild to moderately severe depression
- What
- A randomised controlled trial on the effects of salsa classes on depression and anxiety
- When
- The study was conducted over eight weeks
- Where
- University of Oxford’s Department of Psychiatry and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust
- Why
- To explore alternative therapies for mental health, particularly for young adults
Proponents of Dance Therapy
Skeptics of Dance Therapy
Effectiveness of Dance Therapy
Proponents of Dance Therapy
Proponents argue that dance therapy, particularly salsa, can significantly reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety by activating mirror neurons, promoting trust, and reducing stress levels.
Skeptics of Dance Therapy
Skeptics point out that the study did not use clinically diagnosed participants or an active control group, suggesting that further research is necessary to validate the findings.
- Study Conducted By
- University of Oxford’s Department of Psychiatry
- Participants
- 121 young adults aged 18 to 24 with mild to moderately severe depression
- Duration
- Eight weeks
- Symptom Reduction
- 2.45-point shift on the PHQ-9 scale
- Additional Benefits
- Reduced social anxiety and increased daily happiness
- Expert Opinion
- Khushali Gala, a counselling psychologist, supports the findings based on her clinical experience
- Researcher Caution
- Lead author Brennan Delattre and co-author Professor Susannah Murphy call for further research