Do you suffer from Depression?
Depression is a mood disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterised by psychological and physical symptoms affecting young and old and twice as many women as men.
Symptoms can last for weeks, months or even years and can include the following:
- Negative feelings
- Sleep disturbances
- Difficulty in functioning normally
- Painful thoughts
- Anxiety and Agitation
- Restlessness
- Persistant sadness
- Hopelessness
- Chronic fatigue
- Irritability
- Loss of interest
- Loss of self esteem
- Feelings of worthlessness and inadequacy
The causes of depression are not fully understood. They may be triggered by a traumatic event, prolonged stress, chemical imbalance in the brain, thyroid disorders, poor diet, nutritional deficiencies, low blood sugar and food allergies.
Most of us have experienced some form of depression at one time or another in our lives. It is a normal response to events in our lives that overwhelm us. When we are balanced physically and emotionally we can easily bounce back from a depressed state but when negative feelings or emotions become persistent, depression may set in.
Depression is treatable but most people do not receive the care and support they need.
Traditional Chinese Medicine [TCM] Treatment for Depression:
Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years and although it does not recognise depression as a particular illness, it still aims to alleviate the symptoms being experienced while also addressing the underlying disharmony or root cause of the problem.
Acupuncture is part of the system of healthcare known as Traditional Chinese Medicine and involves the insertion of very fine needles into specific points on the body helping to encourage the normal flow of Qi in the meridians, keeping the body and mind in balance and reinforcing health.
As acupuncturists we are aware of the powerful interplay between our body and our emotions. For example, when we experience physical problems, our emotions are affected and likewise when we experience emotional upset, our physiological state may change. During a consultation we will ask specific questions in order to find out where your particular imbalances lie.
As Naturopathic Acupuncturists we will also look at various areas of your life which can have an effect on your mental health such as diet, exercise, work and home stressors and any underlying health issues. Based on this information, along with a tongue and pulse diagnosis, we will then formulate a personalised treatment plan. This will include acupuncture, supplements, herbs, flower essences, exercise and diet and lifestyle changes where necessary.
Acupuncture and Naturopathic medicine are safe, natural and effective ways of treating depression. It is not a ‘quick fix’ treatment and you may need weeks or even months of treatment in order to see positive, long lasting results.
