Acupuncture for Depression
Approximately 5% of adults worldwide, have depression. (World Health Organization). The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) approximates that 8.3% of the adult US population has had at least one major depressive episode in 2021. Many people with depression do not seek health and/or do not have access to care, so it is likely that depression is statistically underreported.
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In Chinese Medicine, depression can manifests in many different ways. Each experience of it is unique. Acupuncture is a great option for those who experience depression because of its ability to reduce pain in the body, increase endorphins, reduce stress, balance hormones and calm the nervous system. Acupuncture also does not interact with medications. The Chinese Medical system is also one that views the body as a whole and takes into consideration your unique life experience, constitution and tendencies. Acupuncture is also a great adjunct to psychotherapy.
A 2023 Randomized control trial looked at the effects of auricular acupuncture on patients with depression. One group was given a protocol specific to treat depression while another group was given auricular points that were not specific to depression treatment. Acupuncture was administered 12 times in a span of 6 weeks. Both groups reported positive results with an overall improvement of at least 50% and results were retained at a 3 month follow up.
Back in 2000 a small study was organized on 70 people who were in inpatient care in Germany, for major depression. The participants were on the same medication for depression and some received acupuncture three times a week for four weeks. Those who received acupuncture showed improvements in their depression compared to those who were only taking medication.
A systemic review in 2019 looked at 22 studies on acupuncture and depression and found a correlation between an increased number of acupuncture sessions with a decrease in the severity of depression. It was determined from this review that acupuncture is a suitable complementary treatment to those receiving therapy and/or medication for their depression.
Many people whether they are seeking acupuncture for depression or other concerns will often report feeling relaxed, calmer or more at ease after acupuncture. Because acupuncture is safe and minimally invasive it is a good way to complement your current treatments for depression. For those who experience depression, it is important to note that acupuncture should not replace your therapy visits. What you choose to share about your depression or mental health with your acupuncturist should be totally up to you. Because acupuncturists look at signs, symptoms and patterns in your whole body, your tongue and your pulse, it is not necessary for you to share the same things you share with your therapist. We will be able to treat you comprehensively with whatever you feel comfortable disclosing.
Written by Dr. Emily Siy, DACM 4/29/24
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You might also be interested in reading: Why Am I Crying During Acupuncture?, Balancing the 5 Spirits and 7 Emotions, 5 Ways Acupuncture Can Help You Emotionally, How Does Ear Acupuncture Work?
Sources:
de Oliveira Rodrigues DM, Menezes PR, Machado Ribeiro Silotto AE, et al. (2023) Efficacy and Safety of Auricular Acupuncture for Depression: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Network Open. 6(11):e2345138
Koskie & Raypole (2023) Depression Facts and Statistics, Healthline.com website
J. Röschke, Ch. Wolf, M.J. Müller, P. Wagner, K. Mann, M. Grözinger, S. Bech (2000) The Benefit from Whole Body Acupuncture in Major Depression Journal of Affective Disorders Vol 57 Issues 1-3 pages 73-81