Can Acupuncture Relieve Anxiety and Depression Symptoms in Canberra?

Work, family, and financial pressures can all take their toll in today’s modern world – leading people to feel stressed and burnt out. In some cases, anxiety and depression may follow and even become chronic. There are many ways – some natural, others chemical – to relieve stress, anxiety, and depression in Canberra.

One of the more natural treatments available in Canberra is acupuncture, which Canberra Classic Chinese Medicine Centre specialises in. Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese healing technique that dates back over 3,000 years. Acupuncture may relieve the symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression in Canberra.

What are stress, anxiety, and depression?

Stress is a normal physical reaction to feeling overwhelmed. When a person is stressed, their adrenal glands release adrenaline and cortisol (both powerful hormones). Stress can be beneficial on a short-term basis, but isn’t healthy over the longer term.

Anxiety is characterised by excessive worry, fear, and a sense of dread. It is experienced occasionally by all human beings. However, it becomes a problem when symptoms persist. Chronic anxiety (sometimes diagnosed as an anxiety disorder) can effectively disable a person.

Depression is a complex mental health condition that varies in severity. Sufferers of depression can experience mood swings, feelings of hopelessness and sadness, negative thoughts, and low self-esteem. In extreme cases, depression can lead to suicide.

How does acupuncture potentially relieve stress, anxiety, and depression?

Acupuncture is a complementary therapy that seeks to unblock and balance the patient’s vital energy (Qi). In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), vital energy (Qi) flows through the body’s 12 principal meridians (energy passageways). If a patient’s vital energy (Qi) isn’t flowing freely, they’re more likely to experience ill-health or imbalance. In TCM, anxiety and depression are symptomatic of “excessive emotions” requiring regulation, which is where acupuncture assists.

The acupuncture team at Canberra Classic Chinese Medicine Centre can address energy (Qi) blockages, imbalances, and “regulation” issues in the body. Dr. Linda and Dr. Ricky are highly qualified and experienced acupuncture practitioners in Canberra – not to mention experts in Chinese herbal medicine. When you walk through the clinic’s doors in Deakin, you’ll be met by friendliness, warmth, and empathy; you won’t be judged for having anxiety or depression.

Does acupuncture complement other treatments for mental wellbeing?

In most cases, yes. Acupuncture is often combined with Chinese herbal medicine at Canberra Classic Chinese Medicine Centre to treat stress, anxiety, and depression in Canberra. Two famous Chinese herbal formulas we use are Ban Xia Hou Po Tang and An Shen Ding Zhi Wan. Acupuncture can also assist patients who are taking conventional antidepressants and / or undertaking psychological counselling.

Important Note: it’s imperative to disclose any medications you’re taking for stress management, anxiety, or depression during your initial acupuncture session at Canberra Classic Chinese Medicine Centre.

Will acupuncture cure my anxiety or depression?

No, it won’t. However, it may relieve the symptoms of your anxiety or depression.

Can acupuncture replace antidepressant treatment?

As a general rule, it can’t. Acupuncture is a complementary therapy that may relieve the symptoms of depression and anxiety. It can usually be administered safely with antidepressants and psychological counselling. If you’re considering the discontinuation of antidepressant treatment, you need to consult your medical doctor.

What can I do to improve my stress levels, anxiety, or depression?

In addition to both complementary and conventional treatments, lifestyle changes may assist in improving the symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression in Canberra. You’ll find some simple suggestions below.

• Avoid or minimise alcohol.
• Smile and practice deep breathing.
• Drink water to stay hydrated.
• Stay away from recreational drugs.
• Exercise regularly – a simple walk every day is beneficial.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Consider meditation or stress management classes in Canberra.
• Reduce sugar and artificial sweetener consumption.
• Eat a healthy and balanced diet (don’t overeat).
• Get at least 7 hours of sleep every night.
• Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
• Take regular breaks from electronic devices such as computers and mobile phones.
• Stay in touch with family and friends.
• Try to avoid negative people and situations.
• Pamper yourself regularly – have a massage, read a book, play a game of golf, or watch a light-hearted movie (whatever you enjoy doing).

In summary, be kind to yourself (and don’t worry about following every suggestion above). If you ever feel suicidal, please talk to someone immediately or call Lifeline on 13 11 14. A key thing to remember is that help is available.

To enquire about acupuncture treatment for stress, anxiety, or depression in Canberra (or to make a booking), please call (02) 5105 9049 or 0401 178 828.