Importance: The comorbidity of chronic pain and depression has caused a need for a treatment to address both conditions simultaneously. Aquatic therapy provides both physical and psychological health benefits for individuals who suffer from chronic pain-induced depression.

Objective: This secondary research addresses aquatic therapy’s effect on depression severity and quality of life in individuals with chronic pain-related depression. 

Methods: Data was collected from September 2024 to February 2025 using PubMed, MEDLINE, and EBSCOhost to identify studies from 2006 to 2023. Inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed randomized controlled trials on aquatic therapy for individuals over the age of 18 with chronic pain and depression. Exclusion criteria removed studies without an intervention of aquatic therapy. Data were analyzed thematically, focusing on psychological effects, pain reduction, and quality of life.

Results: Twenty-four studies met the inclusion criteria. The analysis revealed that aquatic therapy improved depression, anxiety, pain, and quality of life but did not improve sleep disturbances.

Conclusions: In summary, the findings suggest the link between chronic pain and depression, as well as identify aquatic therapy as an effective and holistic treatment for individuals with chronic pain-related depression, as it offers psychological benefits, reduces pain, and improves the quality of life. Future research should include longer trials with larger sample sizes and a follow-up evaluation after intervention.