Effects of a Cold-Shower Therapeutic Intervention on Symptoms Associated with Depression.

The experimental group will take part in a series of six cold-shower treatments, over a two-week period utilizing a controlled breathing technique. On Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings, participants will be asked to take a three-minute cold-shower. Detailed instructions will be provided in an electronic information sheet and through an introductory video that will be embedded within the electronic information sheet. Participants will be instructed in a breathing technique designed to negate the “cold-shock” response that may accompany cold-water immersion. This technique involves control of the depth of ones’ respiration and respiratory rate. A long slow in-breath through the nostrils, drawing air into the diaphragm, followed by a slow exhalation through the mouth, making a whooshing sound whilst progressively relaxing muscle groups, can assist in controlling respiration, avoid reflex hyperventilation often associated with cold-shock and help to maintain a resting heart rate. Participants will require a towel, bathmat or towel to place on the floor to help avoid slipping and a timer or stopwatch. The intervention will require that participants begin practicing the breathing technique before entering the cold shower and that the cold tap is turned on prior to stepping into the shower. Participants will be asked to set their timer or stopwatch for three minutes. It is recommended that the participants immerse a leg first, slowly entering the shower, until they are fully immersed. Focus is to be maintained on the breathing technique and muscle relaxation. Participants will be instructed to ensure that the right lateral side of the neck is exposed to the cold-water, this area is a terminus for the auricular branch of the Vagal Nerve At the end of the three minutes, participants may exit the shower, being careful not to slip. They may then take a warm shower if needed. Adherence to the cold-shower treatment intervention will be assessed through self-report within the post-intervention survey. Participants will be asked whether they were able to comply with the intervention requirements over the course of the six hydrotherapeutic sessions. If unable to comply, participants will be asked to outline any reasons why they were unable to comply with the requirements. A text reminder will be sent to each participant the night before each hydrotherapeutic session to serve as a reminder and aid in increasing compliance (see below). Dear research participant. A friendly reminder of your upcoming hydrotherapeutic treatment tomorrow morning. Please remember your participation in this research is voluntary and you may cease participation or withdraw from the study at any time, without comment or penalty. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the student researcher at the following email address: Sam.crooke@griffithuni.edu.au If you are experiencing any adverse psychological effects, please contact Beyond Blue: (1300 224636) or Lifeline (131114). Thank you again for your participation. Sincerely. The research team.