Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Anxiety: A Promising New Relief
Stress and anxiety affect many people and can have a significant impact on daily life, energy levels, and overall wellbeing. Alongside established medical and psychological treatments, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is increasingly being explored as a supportive, non-invasive therapy to promote relaxation, brain health, and nervous system balance.
At OXYplus Newcastle, HBOT is delivered using medical-grade equipment and personalised treatment plans designed to support both physical and mental wellbeing.
What Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves breathing 100% medical-grade oxygen inside a pressurised chamber. The increased pressure allows oxygen to dissolve more efficiently into the bloodstream, improving oxygen delivery to tissues and organs throughout the body, including the brain.
HBOT is widely used to support healing and recovery, and growing research suggests it may also play a role in supporting brain function, stress regulation, and overall neurological health.
How HBOT May Support Stress and Anxiety
While HBOT is not a replacement for mental health treatment, it may support individuals experiencing stress or anxiety by improving physiological conditions linked to brain health.
Improved Oxygen Delivery to the Brain
The brain is highly sensitive to oxygen levels. HBOT increases cerebral oxygenation, which supports:
Efficient brain metabolism
Healthy nerve signalling
Improved blood flow
Enhanced oxygen availability may help support mental clarity and calmness, particularly in individuals experiencing mental fatigue or stress.
Reduced Inflammation
Chronic stress and anxiety have been associated with inflammation in the nervous system. HBOT has been shown to reduce inflammation by improving oxygen supply to affected tissues, which may help support overall brain health and neural balance.
Reducing inflammation may contribute to improved comfort and a greater sense of calm over time.
Encouraging Neuroplasticity
HBOT supports processes involved in neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to adapt, repair, and form new neural connections. Improved oxygenation and circulation can support nerve function and cognitive resilience.
Brain regions involved in mood regulation and emotional control rely heavily on consistent oxygen supply, making this an important area of interest in supportive anxiety care.
Neurotransmitter Balance and Mood Support
Neurotransmitters such as serotonin play a key role in mood regulation and emotional stability. Adequate oxygen availability supports the biochemical processes involved in neurotransmitter production and signalling.
By improving oxygen delivery and circulation, HBOT may help support a more balanced nervous system environment, contributing to a calming effect for some individuals.
The Relaxation Effect of HBOT Sessions
In addition to physiological effects, many clients report that the HBOT environment itself is calming. Sessions take place in a quiet, controlled setting, allowing time away from daily stressors.
This period of uninterrupted rest may help:
Promote relaxation
Reduce mental overstimulation
Support stress recovery
These effects can be particularly valuable when HBOT is used alongside other wellbeing or therapeutic strategies.
HBOT as a Complementary Therapy
HBOT is best viewed as a complementary therapy, working alongside established approaches such as:
Psychological therapy
Lifestyle changes
Physical rehabilitation
Medical care where appropriate
Some individuals report improved tolerance to daily stress and a greater sense of wellbeing when HBOT is included as part of a broader, structured care plan.
Treatment Frequency and Expectations
HBOT benefits are cumulative. Some people report feeling more relaxed after several sessions, while others may require a longer course to notice changes.
Treatment plans vary depending on individual needs, but sessions typically last 30–90 minutes and may be scheduled multiple times per week over several weeks. A consultation is essential to set realistic expectations and determine suitability.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Newcastle at OXYplus
At OXYplus, we provide professional hyperbaric oxygen therapy in Newcastle Upon Tyne using:
Medical-grade single-occupant monoplace chambers
100% medical-grade oxygen delivered via BIBS masks
Personalised treatment plans
Experienced supervision and strict safety protocols
Our team takes a supportive, evidence-informed approach, ensuring HBOT is delivered safely and appropriately for each individual.
A Supportive Approach to Wellbeing
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy offers a natural, non-invasive way to support brain health and relaxation, particularly when used as part of a comprehensive wellbeing plan.
If you are exploring supportive therapies for stress or anxiety and want professional guidance, our team is here to help.
Book a consultation with OXYplus Newcastle today to learn whether hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be suitable for you.