Fight Depression with Acupuncture

The word ‘Acupuncture’ might instantly splash an image of many thin needles pinned to different parts of the body such as ear, nose, eyes, throat, and back. But, the fact which many people are not fully aware of is that acupuncture is a painless treatment for several underlining severe ailments like anxiety, chronic pain, and depression.

Increased work stress, personal life issues, and the constant urge to be competitive have pushed many towards a lonely and depressed life. Depression can occur to anyone at any time. There are no hard and fast rules for depression, and similarly, there are no concrete ways to treat it.

Of course, there are medications and treatments available to address the ailment. But without will power and energy, it is difficult for anyone to give up the sad life and embrace the surrounding energy, which can help defeat depression. Allopathic treatment available to treat depression may ease its symptoms; however, the procedure alone is incomplete. Acupuncture is exceptional as a complementary treatment to fight off depression.

How Can Acupuncture Help Fight Off Depression?

Various studies have found that the effectiveness of acupuncture is similar to an anti-depressant. Acupuncture therapy stimulates the nervous system and triggers the release of neurochemical messenger molecules. The biochemical changes brought in the body influence the homeostatic mechanisms, which in turn promote emotional as well as physical well-being. Studies have indicated that the application of acupuncture can alter the brain’s mood chemistry by stimulating the production of serotonin and endorphins.

The therapy also benefits depression treatment by affecting the other neurochemical components such as dopamine, noradrenaline, neuropeptide Y, and cortisol. Stimulating specific acupuncture points have shown to change certain areas of the brain that work as a remote control for pain and stress sensitivity. Also, acupuncture can help relax and deactivate the so-called analytical mind which has been found responsible for worry and anxiety. You can improve any change in behavior and biochemistry due to stress through acupuncture therapy.

Acupuncture as a Combined Treatment for Depression

You can use acupuncture safely as a complementary treatment for depression. The therapy, although traditional, is a science-based treatment. Research on the procedure has shown that the needles used in the acupuncture therapy release endorphins in the body, which are the natural painkillers produced by the body. Natural production of the hormone can help boost brain and physical wellness. This boost can bring about relief from symptoms of underlining conditions such as depression, pain, and headache.

Does Acupuncture Relieve Depression or It’s Associate Symptoms?

Acupuncture therapy can help fight off the symptoms of depression and the ailment on the whole. According to a study, electroacupuncture was found to be effective in easing depressions symptoms. Electroacupuncture is one of the many types of acupuncture under which patient suffering from depression is given mild electric shock through needles. The effect of the treatment is similar to that of fluoxetine or Prozac, an anti-depressant.

Can Acupuncture be Used as a Solo Treatment?

Acupuncture therapy can be a solo treatment for depression. However, it is more effective when used in combination with chemical medication or antidepressants. When used as a complementary treatment, acupuncture can help the clinical treatment work in a better way for curing the ailment.

Is Acupuncture Suitable For You?

Acupuncture as a treatment can be taken up by anyone who is undergoing a depression treatment or suffering from depression. However, it is highly advisable to speak to your doctor before taking up any complementary therapy. Acupuncture is for anyone who:

Is familiar with the concept and understands its procedure.
Can commit to regular treatment by visiting the practitioner regularly.
Have patience and will power to overcome depression.

Side-effects and Risks Associated with Acupuncture

Acupuncture is one of the safest treatment with little to no side-effects. If done correctly, there should not be any problem. However, patients may, at time, experience any of the following consequences:

Itching on the area of treatment
Allergic reaction to needles used in the procedure
Bleeding from the needlepoint
Soreness
Bruising around the needlepoint
Tiredness
Muscle twitching
Drowsiness

Acupuncture if performed rightly, does not cause any side-effect. However, a wrong methodology or treatment can have serious consequence over the overall well-being of a person. There have been cases where improper acupuncture treatment led to spinal injuries, cardiac or respiratory problems, and infection. Therefore, it is highly advisable to consult a certified practitioner for the procedure.

Find a Certified Practitioner

It is very crucial to find an accredited practitioner as they are trained to provide the treatment in the safest and cleanest environment. An uncertified practitioner can put your health at risk. You can always ask your friends and well-wishers for a recommendation or take leads from your doctor or even message therapist for trusted options. A certified acupuncture practitioner should have passed an exam from the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine or equivalent.

Battle Depression with Acupuncture

Acupuncture as a therapeutic intervention is being integrated more and more into Western medicine for the treatment of various medical conditions, including depression and chronic pain. Most studies have shown the therapy as the safest option as a complementary treatment. Acupuncture has helped people regain self-confidence, will power to embrace life as it comes, and fight off physical ailment due to inactivity. The therapy has helped people with depression to cherish their experience with a new perspective and energy. The treatment overall is most useful as a complementary therapy for fighting off depression.