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How Acupuncture Helps with Anxiety and Depression

Anxiety and depression are common mental illnesses among adults and teens across the U.S. More than 40 million adults experience anxiety disorders and approximately 17.3 million adults are affected by major depressive disorder. 

Unfortunately, while prescription medications can help some patients with anxiety and depression, they can trigger side effects in others. Additionally, many people prefer natural alternatives to help manage these mental health conditions.

Acupuncture has been shown to help safely treat anxiety and depression in patients of all ages. In this article, we’ll discuss this holistic treatment and its benefits for your mental wellbeing. 

Acupuncture: An Overview

Acupuncture is a holistic healing modality that’s been around for over 3,000 years. It involves inserting extremely thin, stainless steel needles into acupuncture points on the body. This process promotes the flow of vital energy, known as qi, throughout the body. 

Acupuncture Points For Anxiety and Depression

There are specific acupuncture points on the body that have been found to benefit anxiety and depression, including:

  • Yin Tang, an acupuncture point located in between the eyebrows on the forehead, has been found to have relaxing, stress-reducing effects. It can calm the sympathetic nervous system, which manages the body’s “fight or flight” response. 
  • Shenmen, or “Spirit Gate” is an acupuncture point found at the crease of the inner wrist on the pinkie finger side. It’s said to be a gateway to the heart’s innermost chamber and, when used in acupuncture treatment, can clear anxious thoughts and improve sleep quality. 
  • Guan Yuan is an acupuncture point located beneath the navel and considered to be where primary qi is stored in the body. It’s considered to be highly nourishing and can help treat a broad range of conditions, including mental health concerns. 

These are just a few of many acupuncture points that may be used to help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. 

The experienced team at Mind Body Spirit Care provides acupuncture treatments for anxiety, depression, and a complete range of other conditions. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!