Depression may be improved with the use of Botox, according to a report in The New York Times, March 23, 2014 edition. Since Botox can prevent frowning and unhappy facial expression, it was theorized that if you can’t frown it may be harder to be depressed. Researchers wanted to study the idea that facial expressions may feed information back to our brains that influence our mood.

74 patients with major depression received injections in the forehead muscles responsible for frowning. The shots were randomized to either Botox or a salt water solution, placebo. Six weeks later 52% of those who received Botox showed improvement in their depression, as compared to only 15% of those with the salt water injections.

Only half of those in the Botox group were correct in guessing that they had received Botox, which is no better than the toss of the coin. Presumably, knowledge of receiving the Botox could not influence emotional response.

Botox for depression is part of a tradition of “Outside In” therapies that aim to improve the psyche by external manipulations. Acupuncture treatment of anxiety, and exercise for the production of endorphins are other examples of successful use of this methodology. Light therapy sends signals to the brain that can effectively counter Seasonal Affective Disorder. We all recognize that when we look better we have a better sense of self esteem. The concept rings true.

It will take more science to show whether Botox is an effective treatment for depression, and which types of depression it works best for. In the meantime, if you are getting Botox to look a little better, pay attention to whether the absence of frowns puts you in a better frame of mind!