Acupuncture is an outstanding tool for use in a variety of ways. Men and women of all ages can use it as a way to improve pain levels, boost immunity and manage the healing process. Yet it can also be beneficial in the treatment and management of mental health problems. This is one way that many people may not realize is an option.
When can acupuncture help with mental health needs?
In many Asian cultures, acupuncture is used for conditions of all types, including improving depression and reducing anxiety. It can provide a wide range of benefits as an overall healer, too. For example, it can be used to treat a person’s mental state along with emotional and physical symptoms, creating improvement in quality of life and overall health.
Acupuncturists will adjust the methods and tools used to address the specific needs of the patient. There are several options that allow for this type of individualized care, and that’s critically important. By improving your energetic balance, it is possible to treat a variety of conditions. Here are some of those.
Acupuncture and depression
Some studies have found that acupuncture can work very well to improve depression. In some situations, it can even be as effective as using antidepressants. The science may still be out on some aspects of this, but we do know that the use of acupuncture can provide relief from the negative thought patterns that create depressive symptoms. It does this by correcting the flow of energy through the body by addressing energy imbalances in the organs and other areas.
Acupuncture and anxiety
Anxiety can get the heart rate up, cause difficulty with concentration, and create elevated hormone levels. No matter what the cause of the anxiety is, it can be helpful to stop this. Chronic anxiety, in which a person remains in an ongoing state of being anxious, can be detrimental to health. Acupuncture can help with it by addressing the imbalances and blocks in the flow of energy through the body, helping to reduce symptoms and improve overall health.
Post-traumatic stress disorder and acupuncture
Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is a condition that limits a person’s ability to address and manage stresses due to past experiences. Those who have this condition may face feelings of anxiousness and depression. As a result, it is possible to see some relief through a customized acupuncture treatment. It works to help control the areas of the brain associated with increased stress levels, improving overall health. PTSD, which is common in veterans, for example, can be life-changing, but with acupuncture, some people benefit from reduced levels of depression and better day-to-day quality of life.
How can acupuncture help you?
There are many reasons to seek out the use of this treatment. It can help with a wide range of other mental health challenges as well, including:
- Alcohol abuse.
- Drug abuse.
- Insomnia.
- Smoking addictions.
Though there is still a lot of research required, some evidence suggests this treatment can also help men and women facing more challenging mental health disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder and bipolar disorder.
If you believe you are suffering from any type of mental health disorder, speak to your doctor about options. While acupuncture can be an excellent way to combat your symptoms and, for some, relieve them, it is also important to continue to take any prescribed medications unless your doctor tells you not to do so. Adding acupuncture to your treatment can give you some relief and quality of life back without invasive measures.
Ready to see how acupuncture can benefit your health?
In many situations, acupuncture is an ideal solution to improving your symptoms of physical and mental health problems. When you are ready to consider the options and how this can help you, contact Integrated Oriental Medicine. Our team can provide you with guidance on the specific benefits you may see.
