Acupuncture for Anxiety and Depression

Acupuncture is widely recommended for symptoms of anxiety and depression such as irritability, insomnia, loss of appetite, loss of interest in social activity and suicidal tendencies. Experts have found acupuncture to be a beneficial complement to other forms of depression or anxiety therapy such as psychological counseling and is healthier than chemical alternatives such as anti-depressants.

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is one of the most common mental illnesses. Many people suffer some form of anxiety occasionally however others cannot manage this natural response to a stressful situation. When a person experiences a highly stressful or threatening scenario, the mind can be overloaded and fail to develop ways of coping. Anxiety is the body and mind’s natural reaction to threat or danger. Commonly referred to as the ‘Fight or Flight’ response, the body releases hormones such as adrenaline,  which in turn results in a number of physiological reactions occurring in the body.

In the appropriate situation high levels of anxiety – even panic – is considered normal and helpful if it prompts us to escape from danger. However, when anxiety becomes excessive or debilitating then it is considered an Anxiety Disorder.

Anxiety can trigger the following responses:

  • Physical – such as an irregular heartbeat
  • Cognitive – which can cause negative thoughts
  • Behavioral – which may include uncharacteristic aggression or restlessness
  • Emotional – such as fear.
anxiety depression stress acupuncture cork

How many treatments will I need? Explained  here