Depression is a disorder that is characterized by feelings of sadness and a general lack of interest and/or pleasure towards everyday experiences. People who are diagnosed with depression often describe changes in sleep patterns, changes in appetite and negative thoughts. Depression is generally treated with medication and/or talk therapy. However, many patients have continued bouts of depression despite said treatments. Acupuncture can augment traditional treatments for depression or work as a standalone by aiding in relaxation, reducing stress levels and regulating hormones. Acupuncture has been shown to improve overall health and can restore balance to those suffering from depression.
Anxiety is a common mental health condition which is associated with a range of both psychological and physiological symptoms. Persistent nervousness, a sense of doom, trouble concentrating and rapid heartbeat are a few of the common issues. Much like depression, anxiety is often treated with anti-anxiety medications and talk therapy. Acupuncture can be very effective in reducing anxiety-related symptoms by targeting the central nervous system to return the body to a relaxed state. By treating both the physical and mental aspects of anxiety, acupuncture has been shown to be a beneficial treatment for patients who are struggling with anxiety.