The Sauna Boom: Wellness Trend or Helpful Mental Health Tool?

Saunas are having a serious moment — from gyms to backyard builds to endless social media claims promising everything from better sleep to reduced stress. But behind the hype, what’s actually true?LifeStance Health Clinical Directors Aimee McWilliams and Mark McGrosky join us to explore this wellness trend.

Together, the group unpacks the growing popularity of saunas and looks at what research suggests about heat exposure, stress reduction, sleep quality, mood support, and nervous system regulation. They discuss how sauna use may complement mental health care — without replacing therapy or medical treatment — and why it’s important to approach wellness trends with realistic expectations.