Supporting Mental Health with Acupuncture
Understanding Mental Health
The prevalence of mental health challenges has surged over the past decade, yet only one in three people struggling with their mental wellbeing get help. Common disorders include depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and bipolar disorder. Contributing factors to mental health include stressful events, relationship difficulties, financial stress, bereavement, or health problems such as chronic pain. However, these challenges can affect all people regardless of their background or circumstances. While talking therapy and medication are the most common treatments, it's important to recognise that there are alternative paths to healing. Chinese Medicine is one of the longest established forms of healthcare in the world and is well equipped in treating mental health. In England alone, over 4 million treatments are given annually, and some medical professionals now refer patients to acupuncture clinics for mental health difficulties.
About Acupuncture
Chinese Medicine offers a safe and effective method for improving your mental health. It understands that all diseases, whether physical or mental, originate in the mind. Practitioners have used Acupuncture for over 2500 years to restore the bodies internal balance and address the root cause of symptoms. Emotions are seen as natural expressions of being human that, when in balance, help us to fulfil our purpose. For instance, anger helps propel us forward in challenging situations. It is when emotions are suppressed or become excessive that our physical and mental health suffers. Acupuncture works with the body, mind and spirit to restore the natural flow of energy and emotion.
Brain scans of patients receiving acupuncture reveal a desensitisation of brain areas associated with pain and emotions. Research indicates that acupuncture has a balancing effect on the brain chemistry, regulating neurotransmitters like serotonin, noradrenaline, dopamine, GABA, neuropeptide Y and ACTH. It also stimulates the production of opioids, influencing the autonomic nervous system. This promotes the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system, of which is responsible for feeling relaxed and at ease.
Benefits and Expectations from Treatment
The importance of good quality support for mental wellbeing has never been more vital, with anxiety and depression spiking by 25% in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Seeking help can be scary, and acupuncture treatments provide a safe and confidential space where individuals can be heard, whether their struggles feel big or small.
As acupuncturist, our role is to gather information through an initial assessment alongside pulse taking and tongue diagnosis to tailor treatments to each unique individual. Choosing acupuncture allows individuals to address multiple complaints at once without the side-effects associated with medication. Acknowledging the profound impact of the mind on day-to-day life, choosing to invest in acupuncture can greatly benefit both mental and physical health.
