Can Salsa Cure Bad Moods?

University lecturers are to investigate whether Salsa dancing can help beat depression. Researchers at Derby will be testing to see if the Cuban step can boost mental health. The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), a system used to record depression levels, will be used by participants before and after Salsa classes over a two-month period. The findings will then be compared to see if the dance has a positive effect on people's moods.

Mental health lecturer Matt Birks, a keen Salsa dancer, said: "It's been documented that exercise can help mental health sufferers in their fight against depression. "With the physical benefits of Salsa, together with the social interaction and the need for full concentration during a session, I believe Salsa dancing could have health benefits for depressed patients."

Dance teacher Lee Hunter said: "You do notice positive changes in people who regularly come to (Salsa) lessons. People can initially be shy but within a few months they are more extroverted, perhaps even changing dress or hair styles as they become more confident." The university is appealing for volunteers who have a history of depression.