Depression & Anxiety

When you are in the throes of depression and anxiety it can be a very dark place. And while it probably doesn’t  feel possible right now, we have a professional lifetime of experiences that says, it really IS possible to recover and feel better – the key is to find the right treatment.

Depression and anxiety are two different conditions and they often present together. As a matter of fact, it can be hard to find women who exhibit symptoms of depression alone or the other way around.

When its Normal and When its Not

It is normal to feel “down and out” on occasion and everyone feels nervous or worried every so often — it’s a very human response to stressful situations. For those who have experienced depression and/or anxiety, you know it’s different. Where others bounce back quickly, you feel “totally stuck” or continuously overwhelmed- when others look forward to getting together with family or friends, you would prefer to be alone – if the opportunity for a weekend getaway presents itself, others may jump  at the change, whereas you feel daunted by the prospect of even booking a hotel. Fortunately, acupuncture can provide real relief.

How to Recognize the Symptoms of Depression

• A persistent sad or empty mood
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Problems with sleep
• Loss of interest in formerly enjoyable activities
• Aches and pains that do not respond to treatment
• Unstable emotions; irritability or crying for no reason
• Changes in appetite
• Change in cognitive skills, confusion, difficulty making decisions, poor memory
• Talk or thoughts of suicide or death
• A feeling of worthlessness

Common Symptoms of Anxiety

• Excessive worry – sweating the everyday, small stuff
• Persistent fear often without apparent reason
• Feelings of extreme overwhelm
• Inability to focus
• Irritability & agitation
• Loss of sex drive
• Unexplained muscle aches
• Irregular eating – too much or too little
• Insomnia

Does Acupuncture Work for Depression and Anxiety?

Yes it does. In fact, there was a recent study done by the National Institute of Health (NIH) on the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating women with depression. The study showed it is at least as effective as drugs or psychotherapy and there are no side effects. All treatments are tailored specifically for the individual. Along with acupuncture the patient will receive nutritional suggestions, possibly herb or supplements, and lifestyle suggestions. We also work closely with the physician if a patient wants to get off anti-depressants. Together we will create a withdrawal schedule that will not only work it will it will be safe for the patient.

Not all depression is clinical depression, many women suffer from the blues now and then. We treat the full range of depression from mild to severe and the anxiety that accompanies it. I have seen wonderful results in my practice. For cases where anxiety is a result of post-traumatic stress and/or over-stimulation of the nervous system – here too acupuncture can provide relief.

If you have specific questions about Depression & Anxiety and how acupuncture can bring relief, we hope you will be in touch. Nancy is available for a Free Initial Consultation so that you can determine if this is the right fit for you. Feel free to call 408-578-0106 or Email Nancy via our Contact Page.