hyperhidrosis

What Psychological Techniques Can Help Manage Excessive Sweating?

Shad Douglas

09 Aug 2025 — 2 min read

Summary

Psychological techniques can be effective in managing excessive sweating, particularly when stress and anxiety are contributing factors. Techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and relaxation exercises can help reduce the psychological triggers that exacerbate sweating.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured, goal-oriented form of psychotherapy that can be effective in managing excessive sweating by addressing the thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to stress and anxiety. Through CBT, individuals can learn to identify and change negative thought patterns, develop coping strategies, and reduce the anxiety that may trigger excessive sweating episodes.

CBT typically involves working with a trained therapist to systematically address the cognitive and behavioral aspects of anxiety. This approach has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and stress-related disorders, which can, in turn, decrease the severity of hyperhidrosis symptoms. Learn more about CBT's effectiveness from the [Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, 2023].

Mindfulness and Meditation

Practicing mindfulness and meditation can help individuals become more aware of their thoughts and bodily sensations, allowing them to better manage stress and anxiety. Mindfulness involves staying present in the moment and observing thoughts and feelings without judgment, which can help decrease stress-related sweating.

Meditation, particularly mindfulness meditation, has been associated with reduced stress levels and improved emotional regulation, which can help manage excessive sweating. For more information on how mindfulness can aid in stress reduction, refer to the [Mindfulness Meditation: Getting Started, 2023].

Relaxation Techniques

Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR)

Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) is a technique that involves tensing and then relaxing each muscle group in the body. This process helps reduce physical tension and can promote a state of relaxation, thereby potentially reducing stress-induced sweating.

Guided PMR exercises can be followed via audio recordings or written instructions, often resulting in reduced anxiety and improved stress management. Learn more about PMR from [Harvard Health Publishing, 2023].

Breathing Exercises

Breathing exercises, such as deep breathing or diaphragmatic breathing, can help activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels. These exercises can be practiced regularly or during periods of acute stress to help diminish excessive sweating.

Consistent practice of deep breathing techniques can lead to better control over anxiety and stress responses. Detailed guidance on breathing techniques can be found in the [CDC Coping with Stress, 2023].

Conclusion

Incorporating psychological techniques into the management of excessive sweating can significantly aid in reducing the anxiety and stress that often exacerbate the condition. By utilizing CBT, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques, individuals can gain control over their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

References

[Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, 2023] Psychology Today. "Cognitive Behavioral Therapy."
[Mindfulness Meditation: Getting Started, 2023] Mindful. "Mindfulness Meditation: Getting Started."
[Simple Ways to Relieve Stress, 2023] Harvard Health Publishing. "Simple Ways to Relieve Stress."
[CDC Coping with Stress, 2023] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Coping with Stress."

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