Acupuncture, which is based on a holistic approach to healing, consists of inserting fine needles along various points in the body, with the purpose of stimulating the body’s flow of life energy, known as Qi. For those living here in Asheville, acupuncture and other alternative healing modalities are widely available. If you suffer from depression and would like to try acupuncture, Asheville, NC, or wherever you live, likely has practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) who can work with you. TCM does not recognize depression as a particular illness, but it aims to treat specific symptoms using acupuncture, Chinese herbs, energetic exercises, etc., to restore imbalances in the body.? Though acupuncture has traditionally been taught as a preventive modality of healing, it has also been proven effective in the treatment of chronic conditions, such as depression and anxiety.? Depression is a mood disorder characterized by symptoms (both psychological and physical) that can be detrimental to normal functioning. Whether you’ve experienced it for yourself, you know a friend or relative who has dealt with it, or you’ve heard about it on TV (usually tied to some “miracle” pill), you probably know what depression means. People who are depressed often suffer from anxiety, worry, crying spells, fatigue, an inability to concentrate, a lack of interest in social activities and hobbies, etc. In extreme cases, depression leaves individuals feeling hopeless, often considering harming themselves or others, or even committing suicide.
Western antidepressant drugs such as Zoflot, Prozac, Effexor, Paxil, Elavil, Lexapro, Celexa, and Wellbutrin focus on maintaining the serotonin levels in the brain. About 8 million Americans are afflicted with depression. But, in addition to the side effects and financial costs, many patients find that they need to take them all the time. In contrast, acupuncture, combined with Chinese herbs, can be a very effective, long-term alternative to treating depression, anxiety, stress-induced fatigue and mood swings.
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