Floatation Therapy for Mental Health Conditions

Details

Files
Project Status:
Completed
Project Line:
Health Technology Review
Project Sub Line:
Rapid Review
Project Number:
RC1397-000

Question

  1. What is the clinical effectiveness of floatation therapy for the treatment of mental health conditions?
  2. What is the cost-effectiveness of floatation therapy for the treatment of mental health conditions?
  3. What are the evidence-based guidelines regarding the use of floatation therapy for the treatment of mental health conditions?

Key Message

Limited evidence from 2 randomized controlled trials suggested that floatation with restricted environmental stimulation therapy may provide some potential benefits in reducing anxiety and improving many of the symptoms associated with anxiety, including muscle tension, blood pressure, difficulties in emotion regulation, sleep difficulties, and depression, in individuals with anxiety disorders.

Both trials reported no serious adverse events or negative side effects associated with the floatation therapy.

No evidence was found on the cost-effectiveness of floatation therapy for the treatment of mental health conditions.

No evidence-based guidelines with recommendations regarding the use of floatation therapy for the treatment of mental health conditions were identified.