How Acupuncture Can Help Depression And Anxiety

Depression and anxiety are two of the most common mental health conditions in the United States. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 16 million adults in the U.S. suffer from depression, and around 18 percent of Americans suffer from anxiety disorders.

While there are many different treatment options available for depression and anxiety, such as medication and therapy, some people may find that these treatments don’t work for them or that they only provide temporary relief. If this is the case, acupuncture may be a good option to consider.

Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. It has been used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions, including depression and anxiety.

There is some evidence that acupuncture may be effective for treating these conditions. A study published in the journal Acupuncture in Medicine in 2016 found that acupuncture was effective in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety in people with chronic pain.

Another study, published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Medicine in 2016, found that acupuncture was effective in reducing anxiety symptoms in people with generalized anxiety disorder.

While more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of acupuncture for depression and anxiety, there is some evidence that it may be helpful for these conditions. If you are struggling with depression or anxiety and have not found relief with other treatments, acupuncture may be worth considering.