ASMR as a Therapy for Anxiety, Stress, Depression, and Insomnia: A Systematic Review
Authorship
M.A.L.G.
Bachelor of Nursing (2ª ed) [S]
M.A.L.G.
Bachelor of Nursing (2ª ed) [S]
Defense date
09.03.2025 10:00
09.03.2025 10:00
Summary
Introduction: Health systems worldwide show deficiencies in the field of mental health, and the high social and healthcare costs compel the search for new tools such as ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response), a recent trend that has drawn scientific and public interest due to its ability to induce relaxation. Given the complexity of the phenomenon, a mixed-methods review is appropriate to explore how ASMR affects major mental disorders. Objectives: To evaluate the available scientific evidence on the use of ASMR as a therapeutic tool to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, insomnia, and stress. Specifically, the review analyzes both the quantitative effects of ASMR and the subjective perceptions of its users. Methodology: A systematic review was conducted using major biomedical, nursing, and psychological research databases, following PRISMA guidelines. Results: ASMR is subjectively perceived as a useful tool for managing stress, anxiety, depression, and sleep difficulties. It is also used as a simpler form of mindfulness. Among individuals with substance addiction, it reduces both craving and anxiety. A reduction in stress related to workload has also been reported. ASMR acts as a mediator between anxiety and psychopathy, as well as between anxiety and narcissism, suggesting a potential therapeutic benefit for individuals with these personality traits. It decreases depressive symptoms, with greater benefits observed in more severe cases. It also helps alleviate chronic pain symptoms for several hours, offering a potential advantage in preventing associated mental disorders. Additionally, it produces a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure. Conclusions: ASMR appears to be a highly accessible and easy-to-use tool for addressing various mental disorders. However, further experimental studies are needed to provide stronger evidence supporting these findings.
Introduction: Health systems worldwide show deficiencies in the field of mental health, and the high social and healthcare costs compel the search for new tools such as ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response), a recent trend that has drawn scientific and public interest due to its ability to induce relaxation. Given the complexity of the phenomenon, a mixed-methods review is appropriate to explore how ASMR affects major mental disorders. Objectives: To evaluate the available scientific evidence on the use of ASMR as a therapeutic tool to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, insomnia, and stress. Specifically, the review analyzes both the quantitative effects of ASMR and the subjective perceptions of its users. Methodology: A systematic review was conducted using major biomedical, nursing, and psychological research databases, following PRISMA guidelines. Results: ASMR is subjectively perceived as a useful tool for managing stress, anxiety, depression, and sleep difficulties. It is also used as a simpler form of mindfulness. Among individuals with substance addiction, it reduces both craving and anxiety. A reduction in stress related to workload has also been reported. ASMR acts as a mediator between anxiety and psychopathy, as well as between anxiety and narcissism, suggesting a potential therapeutic benefit for individuals with these personality traits. It decreases depressive symptoms, with greater benefits observed in more severe cases. It also helps alleviate chronic pain symptoms for several hours, offering a potential advantage in preventing associated mental disorders. Additionally, it produces a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure. Conclusions: ASMR appears to be a highly accessible and easy-to-use tool for addressing various mental disorders. However, further experimental studies are needed to provide stronger evidence supporting these findings.
Direction
Agra Tuñas, María del Carmen (Tutorships)
REY BRETAL, DAVID (Co-tutorships)
Agra Tuñas, María del Carmen (Tutorships)
REY BRETAL, DAVID (Co-tutorships)
Court
NUÑEZ IGLESIAS, MARIA JESUS (Chairman)
NIETO FONTARIGO, JUAN JOSE (Secretary)
LOPEZ LOPEZ, ANDREA (Member)
NUÑEZ IGLESIAS, MARIA JESUS (Chairman)
NIETO FONTARIGO, JUAN JOSE (Secretary)
LOPEZ LOPEZ, ANDREA (Member)