Oxford study finds salsa classes could help reduce depression in young adults
Researchers say it may offer an accessible addition to youth wellbeing support
Learning a few salsa steps could do more than just improve your fitness, according to new research.
A study led by the University of Oxford found regular salsa classes reduced symptoms of depression in young adults.
The trial involved 121 people aged between 18 and 24 with mild to moderately severe depressive symptoms.
Participants were randomly assigned either an eight-week salsa course or to a waitlist control group.
Researchers monitored their mental wellbeing before, during and after the programme.
The findings showed those taking part in the salsa classes experienced a significantly greater reduction in depressive symptoms than those who did not.
The group also reported lower levels of social anxiety and an increase in day-to-day happiness.
Lead researcher Brennan Delattre said depression among young people is becoming increasingly common, with many struggling to find support that feels accessible or appealing.
"The results of this study were encouraging, with young people who took part in the salsa classes showing a significantly greater reduction in depressive symptoms and social anxiety and increases in happiness over time," she said.
"While salsa dancing is not a replacement for other types of mental health care, nor will it be the right fit for everyone, our findings suggest that social dance deserves serious attention as part of a broader menu of wellbeing support for young people."
Researchers said salsa was chosen with input from young people during the design of the study, who felt it would be an enjoyable and motivating activity.
Participants praised the welcoming atmosphere, friendly instructors and the motivation to attend each week, with none describing the programme as unacceptable.
Professor Susannah Murphy, from the University of Oxford's Department of Psychiatry, said the research highlighted the importance of offering support that young people actually want to engage with.
"These encouraging findings suggest that something as enjoyable and accessible as social dance could one day become part of a broader toolkit for supporting young people's mental health alongside existing treatments."
The researchers note that further investigation is needed, as the study did not include clinically diagnosed patients or compare salsa with another active treatment.
However, they say the findings suggest social dance could become a low-cost, enjoyable addition to existing wellbeing programmes in communities, universities and potentially the NHS.