Acupuncture for Depression - Beverly MA

Acupuncture Helps Depression

Acupuncture for Depression

At the turn of the 20th century, the number of people taking antidepressant medication was 7.7% of the US population (over the age of 12). Today that number has doubled (64% increase to be exact) to 13% of the US population. According to the American Psychiatric Association, antidepressant medications are a first-choice option for treating major depressive disorder. Additionally, they can also be used in the treatment of anxiety. While some people response wonderfully, others are do not have the same favorable results and may suffer from negative side effects from antidepressant medications. Common side effects are headaches, nausea, insomnia, dizziness, muscle weakness, sweating, constipation, low libido, and loss of appetite, to name a few.

What are Symptoms of Depression?

While it completely normal for individuals to experience sadness, loneliness, stress, anxiety and feel depressed from time to time. However, it is important to note that these feelings should not last for long periods of time or be recurring or impair activities of daily living. Common symptoms of depression are:

• Trouble concentrating, remembering details

• Fatigue

• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness,

• Pessimism and hopelessness

• Irritability

• Loss of interest in things once pleasurable

• Overeating

• Appetite loss

• Aches, pain, headaches

• Digestive problems

• Suicidal thoughts

Unfortunately, about half the people who have depression are never treated for depression. If depression is left untreated, it may become worse and last for months, or even years.

A growing number of people are seeking alternatives to antidepressant medication, and acupuncture is a promising option.

Does Acupuncture Help Depression?

YES! Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is a major factor in the pathogenesis of depression. GDNF is considered one of the most important physiological factors acting on serotonergic and dopamiergic neurons. Serotonergic neurons synthesis the neurotransmitter serotonin, which contributes to wellbeing and happiness. Dopaminergic neurons are the main source of dopamine, and their loss is associated with neurological disorders, Parkinson's disease, depression, etc. The effects of acupuncture have been shown to improve GDNF levels to levels slightly higher than those patients treated with a Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRIs).

Acupuncture Treatment for Depression

Our acupuncture treatments are an individualized health care plan for each patient to restore balance and harmony within the body. As a result, each acupuncture treatment is tailored to the patient's symptoms with the goal to improve their depression, anxiety and other mental health conditions. Acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine affects each patient differently. While it is common to experience some immediate relief from your symptoms, acupuncture works best with a number of treatments. This is especially true for chronic conditions, as chronic conditions are more deeply rooted and a greater number of treatments are necessary to completely resolve the health condition. Additionally, our acupuncture clinic has the ability to prescribe Chinese herbal medicine. Chinese herbal medicine helps further to improve symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. Chinese herbal medicine allows a patient to utilize a deep and internal level of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and herbal formulas can be formulated in a similar way to acupuncture to address specific needs of each individual patient. It is the goal of Chinese herbal medicine to continue treatment of all health concerns at home when patients are not receiving acupuncture.

About Our Acupuncture Clinic:

North Shore Acupuncture and Natural Medicine is an acupuncture clinic in Beverly, MA. We utilize acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and natural medicine restore optimal health and wellness. Employing traditional and modern approaches to enhance your health and longevity.