Portsmouth study examines cold water swimming for depression

Academics at the University of Portsmouth are conducting a groundbreaking study to explore whether cold water swimming can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. They are currently seeking 480 participants for this research, building on a similar study from the previous year.

The trial will take place at various outdoor swimming locations, including Shoreham in West Sussex and Christchurch in Dorset. Dr. Heather Massey, a senior lecturer in sport, health, and exercise science, emphasized that this study aims to provide definitive evidence regarding the mental health benefits of cold water exposure.

The researchers noted that cold water swimming gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic, as many sought alternative forms of exercise while adhering to lockdown measures. Despite previous studies indicating potential mental health benefits, the Portsmouth team aims to collect data from a larger sample size to draw more robust conclusions.

Participants in the study will be divided into two groups. One group will undergo an eight-week swimming course while continuing their current medication for depression and anxiety. The second group will maintain their existing treatment but will only participate in the swimming program after the initial phase of the study. This design allows for a controlled comparison of outcomes.

Lynne MacFarlane, a participant who was referred for the study due to her depression, expressed her initial skepticism about the impact of cold water swimming. She shared, “As a swimmer, I love the water and the sea, but I couldn’t see how the cold would help my symptoms of depression. However, it did.”

Dr. Massey pointed out that while there is a wealth of anecdotal evidence supporting the positive effects of water on mental health, there is a lack of scientifically validated data. “This is why we should be doing this type of work—to better understand how cold water swimming affects individuals with depression and anxiety and who it helps most.”

Nina Yates, an open water swim coach at Lymington Sea Baths, has witnessed firsthand the benefits of swimming in cold water. She mentioned, “You get this buzz. It’s all about making people feel comfortable.”

The study, named Outside 2, aims to gather critical information that could lead to new treatment options for depression and anxiety. If successful, it may even result in cold water therapy becoming a prescribed treatment option through general practitioners. Funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research, the study will take place across 15 sites in England, including locations in Lymington, Shoreham, Maidenhead, and Christchurch.

The researchers are specifically looking for individuals experiencing mild to moderate depression to participate in this two-year study. With the goal of providing clearer evidence on the effectiveness of cold water swimming, the Portsmouth academics hope to contribute valuable findings to the field of mental health treatment.