Autonomous sensory meridian response: Your patients already know, do you?

Abstract

Public interest in autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR) is growing on digital media platforms. Some people can elicit the response by watching videos containing triggering sounds and images. People susceptible to ASMR's effects report tingling sensations on the head and neck, as well as feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and mood elevation. Underlying mechanisms of the phenomenon are not well understood, but physiologic evidence corroborates some of the self-reported positive effects. Healthcare professionals should be aware of this emerging topic, and the potential for therapeutic applications should be investigated.