Could acupuncture be the key to easing your mental health struggles? This ancient practice from Traditional Chinese Medicine has been scientifically proven to reduce anxiety, depression, PTSD, and stress by balancing the body’s energy and influencing neurotransmitter release. Read on to learn how acupuncture for mental health can be integrated into your mental health care plan to enhance emotional well-being.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture is the practice of inserting fine needles in specific areas of skin to stimulate your nervous system. Acupuncture needles are incredibly thin, only about the circumference of a strand of human hair. The most common uses for acupuncture in the U.S. are for chronic pain, such as chronic neck pain and Arthritis, but acupuncture benefits have been shown for mental health uses as well.
There have been many studies trying to answer the question: Does acupuncture really work?
A 2021 study found evidence suggesting patients experiencing Generalized Anxiety Disorder may experience benefits from acupuncture therapy. Additionally, researchers found a connection between alleviated severity of depression and acupuncture treatments.
As research continues to be conducted, current evidence suggests a correlation between acupuncture and mental health.
Mental Health Acupuncture Points
Acupuncturists believe there are over 2000 acupuncture points on the human body, each with different health benefits. Here are a few common acupuncture points frequently used for mental health applications:
- The Hall of Impression is located between your eyebrows.
- The Inner Frontier Gate is on the inside of your forearm, about three fingers below the wrist.
- The Union Valley pressure point is located in the webbing between your thumb and index finder.
Acupuncture and Traditional Treatments
Acupuncture is a treatment that is commonly bundled with more traditional medical treatments. A clinical study completed in 2019 found a significant correlation between an increase in acupuncture treatments and a reduction in the severity of depression, concluding acupuncture may be a suitable adjunct antidepressant treatment.
Be sure to consult your doctor before beginning acupuncture sessions and make sure you continue on your current treatment regimen as prescribed alongside your acupuncture treatments.
What to Expect During Acupuncture Sessions
When you plan a visit for acupuncture near you, you’ll first have a consultation with your acupuncturist. You will discuss your condition and your goals for acupuncture. The acupuncturist will then examine different areas of your body, locating the ideal acupuncture points for the treatment. Using sterile needles, they will insert these needles into precise points, tapping them into your skin. These needles will stay in your skin for a short time – 10-15 minutes on average–before removal.
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Most patients describe the sensation of inserting the thin needles as a small prick. You may feel a dull ache or heavy sensation once the needle has reached its optional depth, but acupuncture should not be painful when performed by a skilled practitioner.
What to Expect After an Acupuncture Session?
Acupuncture affects people differently, but it’s common to feel a strong calming sensation after treatment. Consider having a friend accompany you so you can ride in the passenger seat on the way home, since this calm sensation may leave you unsuitable to drive immediately after the session.
Find a Qualified Practitioner Near You
When finding a qualified acupuncture practitioner, look for one that is affiliated with an accredited organization. Our acupuncturist is a fellow with The Acupuncture and TCM Board of Reproductive Medicine (ABORM), an international organization of skilled clinicians and researchers providing evidence-based care. Certified practitioners will guide you through your acupuncture sessions, offering you the best care catered to your needs.
Mental health is a journey. Empower yours and learn more about the benefits of acupuncture. Our Acupuncturist in the Greater Alameda Area is dedicated to helping you achieve your wellness goals be it thyroid, adrenal, fertility, or simple overall healing. Book your appointment with Bespoke Wellness today to get started.
