Acupuncture To Treat Depression

Understanding Depression And Its Effect On Us.

Depression is a mental disorder characterised by low mood and a loss of pleasure and interest in activities for a long time.  Depression accounts for 35-40 % of all psychiatric illnesses. It’s twice as common in women as in men, and the onset of depression increases towards middle age, especially in the 55-60 age group. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (2018), one in 10 individuals are affected in this country.

While we probably have all experienced at some stage temporary episodes of depressive feelings, when depression becomes a regular occurrence, it can have an impact on all aspects of our lives, including our relationships with family, friends, employment, studies, and, of course, our general health. People with depression can be affected by traumatic episodes such as physical or emotional abuse, human loss, divorce, and financial stress, which are major trigger factors.

Acupuncture can be used to treat Depression, Anxiety, & Stress, as they are all interconnected issues that can significantly impact one's quality of life.

Common symptoms of depression can range from:

• poor concentration,

• low appetite and energy, 

• poor sleep, 

• low self esteem, 

• guilt and sometimes even suicidal tendencies. 

While pharmaceutical medication such as antidepressants can be effective, the side effects are often severe, so many sufferers are constantly looking for effective alternatives.

How Acupuncture Helps With Depression

In Chinese medicine, depression occurs when the Qi energy that circulates throughout our body becomes stagnant, thus affecting the individual's mental attributes. In that framework, each organ has a specific connection with emotions, with the Heart being associated with the expression of joy and happiness, the Liver being responsible for the ability to make decisions, and the kidney being in charge of our willpower. 

In depression, all these organs will be affected to different degrees. During treatment, specific acupuncture points or herbal formulas will be selected to target these imbalances according to the individual pattern of dysfunction. Acupuncture has shown promise in reducing the severity of depression by addressing these underlying energy blockages.

Benefits of Acupuncture for Depression

Acupuncture provides a natural and holistic approach and has many benefits such as”

• Minimal side effects

• Enhanced overall mental well-being

• Long-lasting relief with consistent treatment

• Absence of withdrawal symptoms.

What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session

During the initial consultation, which will take around 30 minutes, you will be asked detailed questions about past medical history, including your digestion, sensitivity to heat and cold, sleep, headaches, eyes, ears, menstrual history if you are a woman, skin, immunity, and emotions. This will be followed by a palpation of your lower legs, arms, legs and wrist pulses and an examination of your tongue to determine the diagnostic pattern of your dysfunction. 

A regular acupuncture treatment consists of a 10 -15-minute consultation and a 45-minute physical treatment on a therapeutic table.  After the consultation, you will be asked to lie down on your back fully clothed, and your body will be wrapped to keep warm. Only your arms, lower legs, and feet will be exposed during the treatment, as most acupuncture points are on the limbs.

During treatment, several (bet.4-6 ) very fine acupuncture needles will be inserted just below the skin for 30 minutes. Your pulse will be checked regularly to check the body’s response to the stimulation.  

Acupuncture relaxes the nervous system, which is often quite enjoyable. It is not uncommon for people to fall asleep. My patients should look forward to their regular treatment as a temporary escape from the stress and bustle of their everyday lives. Sometimes, one might feel a short pricking sensation when one of the needles is inserted, but if you find yourself uncomfortable at any time, please mention it, and the offending needle will be removed immediately.

Additional Tips for improving depression

• Exercise: Even 10-15 minutes a day can help invigorate your body and boost your mood.

• Nourish your body: Eating well-balanced meals and limiting high sugar, fat, processed foods, and alcohol intake can significantly affect your mood.

• Keep a journal: Writing down negative thoughts can allow you to identify distorted thinking and repetitive negative patterns.

• Be kind to yourself: Engage in joyful activities. Challenge yourself to find five positive things in your life as you wake up each morning.

• Keep in touch with your friends and family: Know you are not alone. Being able to verbalise how you are feeling can be very helpful.

Why Choose Acupuncture On Wheels?

Olivier Lejus is a nationally registered acupuncturist and herbal medicine practitioner with over twenty-three years of clinical experience. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Acupuncture and a Master's degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine from the University of Technology of Sydney (UTS), with years of postgraduate studies in Japanese acupuncture in both Australia and Japan.

Olivier Lejus is a certified practitioner who has been a university lecturer for many years and has written articles and conducted seminars on Oriental medicine for over two decades.

Frequently Asked Questions About Acupuncture For Depression

Book Your Consultation

Don't let depression hold you back. Schedule a consultation with Olivier from Acupuncture on Wheels today and take your first step towards effective depression relief. Learn how professional acupuncture can help you manage depression and improve your well-being. Click below to book your appointment and start feeling more balanced and positive.