Depression is an ailment that affects millions of people worldwide. While it can be difficult to diagnose at times, it is a wholly treatable ailment given the right medication as well as therapies. Treatment for depression does vary however and can be quite cumbersome for other people.
While medication and psychotherapy remains important, alternative treatment options can also help alleviate symptoms of depression.
This is where acupuncture and depression can be linked. Acupuncture is a recognized safe treatment for several illnesses. It has been shown that acupuncture has improved the condition of those that undergo this therapy. More information on acupuncture and depression is given in the details below.
Background on Acupuncture
Acupuncture originated in China thousands of years ago and was used as part of their traditional medicine. Its basis is in the theory that energy flows in the body through different pathways. When these pathways become blocked, this leads to ailments in different body parts.
By inserting thin needles into the body, the flow of energy can be corrected and the ailments cured.
In modern medicine acupuncture has been shown to relieve several symptoms of different ailments. While it still can’t be conclusively labeled as a cure, its usefulness in alleviating problems and improving lives has been well documented.
Acupuncture and Depression
In the view of those who practice it, acupuncture and depression are not directly linked. This is because traditional acupuncture doesn’t view depression as a specific disorder, however the symptoms manifested by depression can be alleviated or even completely removed through acupuncture. These symptoms include, fatigue, insomnia, anxiety and headaches.
Acupuncture can help those that suffer depression improve the quality of their lives. Through continued therapy and proper medication coupled with regular acupuncture sessions, depression can be overcome. There have been studies that show that several people have felt significant improvements in their lives.
By overcoming symptoms such as fatigue and anxiety, these people are better able to cope with mood swings or bouts of depression.
The best way to manage acupuncture and depression is to speak with your doctor and psychiatrist first about it. It is important to still continue with the prescribed medication and therapy sessions. If you feel you may be able to benefit as well through acupuncture then there is no reason not to try it.
Just be sure to go to a licensed practitioner and not to ignore other prescribed medication.
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