Hot and cold therapy tested as depression treatment

NCT ID NCT06263738

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Barry Sandler Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether a single session of whole-body heat therapy (using an infrared sauna) with or without a cold water plunge can reduce depression symptoms. Researchers will enroll 162 adults with depressive symptoms and track their mood changes over two weeks. The goal is to see if these temperature-based procedures offer a simple, non-drug option for mood improvement.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Whole Body Hyperthermia (infrared sauna) and Cold Water Plunge
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a simple, drug-free way to reduce depression symptoms using heat and cold exposure.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage trial with only a single treatment session and short follow-up. Results may not last or apply to everyone, and there are risks like discomfort or adverse reactions to extreme temperatures.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Depression depressive disorder Hyperthermia major depressive disorder mood disorder Psychological Well-Being

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

DEPRESSION HEALTHY CONTROLS MOOD DISORDERS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Vail Health Behavioral Health Innovation Center
RECRUITING

Edwards, Colorado, 81632, United States

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