One of the hardest things about beating depression is simply getting started. Depression can steal your motivation, energy and sense of personal power. This makes it hard to see the pathway forward and take the steps necessary to recover. Acupuncture helps interrupt feelings of helplessness and overwhelm, and working with the right therapist can be an effective way out of depression and towards a more positive future. Symptoms of depression Depression can be debilitating, or it can sneak up on you slowly so that you barely notice it’s taking over your life and stealing your joy. The common symptoms of depression include:

• Withdrawing from family and friends
• Difficulty experiencing pleasure
• Lack of motivation
• Weight loss or weight gain
• Trouble sleeping
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feeling overwhelmed, indecisive, lacking in confidence and sad
• Feeling unmotivated and powerless to take the steps to feel better

Depression is more than just feeling down. It’s a pervasive mood disorder that impacts every part of your life – from your career and studies to your relationships, to your self-esteem and self-view. One of the most difficult things about depression is that the weight of your suffering can sap away all the energy and motivation you need to overcome it. In this way, depression can become a negative feedback loop that convinces you there is nothing you can do and nothing that will work to help you feel better. But that’s not true. If you are struggling with depression, the most important thing is to find the help and support you need. Depression can make you feel extremely alone and isolated in the world, but there are many pathways toward recovery.

How acupuncture can help

Acupuncture is a powerful technique from Traditional Chinese Medicine that helps balance the flow of energy or life force (known as chi or qi) though the body. It is used to treat many different health problems, including mental health disorders such as depression. Very thin needles are inserted through the skin at strategic points on your body to stimulate and regulate the flow of energy. Acupuncture can create a feeling of peace, relaxation and wellbeing. Many patients report feeling lighter and happier after treatment. Acupuncture can help you physically feel more relaxed and in control from the first session which is empowering. Acupuncture is also a great way to connect with a caring practitioner who can offer the support and encouragement to disrupt the negativity cycle of depression. Simply showing up for acupuncture is a great first step to reclaiming your wellbeing. Depression often leads people to feel anxious and guilty that they are not doing the things they should be doing. Acupuncture can give you both the physical boost and psychological support that you are on the road to recovery. Better sleep   Sleep is the foundation of wellbeing and sound mental health. Acupuncture helps regulate sleep patterns and establish better lifestyle habits and routines. It’s impossible to thrive without proper rest and rejuvenation Acupuncture can help you get a better night’s sleep – which sets you up for a better day ahead. Improved digestion   The state of your digestion can be a reflection of your state of mind. Poor digestion, unwanted weight loss or weight gain, and bloating can all be signs of depression and anxiety. Acupuncture helps regulate your digestion which decreases discomfort and can help you feel more in control of your body and positive about life. Do the needles hurt? Acupuncture needles are really fine, about 1/10 the size of the ones you get an injection from. You generally won’t be able to feel the needles going in, although sometimes there may be a small pinch. The legs, hands, abdomen and across the head are the most common sites for treating depression. Once the needles have been placed, you will be left to rest with a heat lamp. Most people find this very relaxing and energising at the same time. It’s generally a pleasant sensation. The practitioner will then remove and dispose of the needles. The right therapist is important   Before starting acupuncture for depression (Acupuncture for Depression), it’s important that you select someone you feel very comfortable with. Depression makes everything seem harder, so you’ll ideally need someone that gets it straight away and makes you feel validated and supported. It takes a lot of courage to take the first step towards better mental health, so finding the right person to support you on your journey is vital. Ask your practitioner if they have experience treating people with depression and make sure you feel positive about the person you choose. The right support and understanding will make all the difference A brighter future Acupuncture can be a great pathway for people suffering from depression because it helps support both physical and mental wellbeing. Acupuncture helps regulate sleep and supports better digestion, which is vital to feeling better and building energy and strength. The emotional support and encouragement that your practitioner provides are also important to heal and recover from depression. Because treatments go at your own pace, acupuncture is not overwhelming. and as you start to feel better, you can add more positive changes into your life and take charge of your future.

About the Author

  Lachlan McDonald is an acupuncturist and Chinese herbalist based in Melbourne, Australia. Lachlan has a special interest in working with patients with mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, general stress, and sleep disorders. His qualifications include Bachelor of Health Science (Chinese Medicine), Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology). Lachlan is registered with the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and is a member of the Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS). Learn More about Lachlan Here