What caused depression?
Depression can occur for several reasons and is often caused by a combination of genetic, biochemical, environmental, and psychological factors. Stress and life events such as the death of a loved one, illness, work pressure, financial difficulties, and relationship problems can trigger depression. Bullying, violence (physical, mental, or emotional) and loneliness can also cause depression, sometimes leading to despair and suicidal thoughts.
1 in 8 women in the world experience postpartum depression, which tends to be caused by hormonal changes (there is a significant drop in estrogen and progesterone after giving birth), lack of support, lack of sleep. , feeling overwhelmed, losing identity or self-control. a person’s life, breastfeeding complications, and health problems for the mother or baby.
What are the signs of depression?
Depression can present emotionally, physically and socially, and symptoms will vary from person to person.
Signs to look out for include:
• Continually feeling tearful, sad or hopeless
• Low mood which can’t be shifted
• Lack of interest in life or things you once enjoyed
• Overly anxious or worried
• Suicidal thoughts or wanting to hurt yourself
• Low self-esteem
• Irritability or intolerance for others
• Extreme fatigue and wanting to sleep all day
• Lack of appetite or comfort eating
• Weight loss or weight gain
• Aches and pains
• Loss of sex drive
• Insomnia or difficulty getting to sleep
• Not wanting to socialize or see others
• General apathy towards life
Is Acupuncture good for depression?
Acupuncture has shown to be highly effective for treating depression, both in easing symptoms and addressing the underlying causes such as hormonal imbalances and stress.
Research suggests that acupuncture demonstrates a similar effectiveness to anti-depressant medication; in one study, researchers concluded that acupuncture was in fact superior to anti-depressants in improving both response and symptom severity of post-stroke depression.
Acupuncture works by inserting thin, small needles into acupuncture points on the body to stimulate the nervous system and promote the release of neurochemical messengers; both of which improve physical and emotional wellbeing. Benefits of acupuncture for depression
The benefits of using acupuncture for depression are numerous and we have successfully treated patients with various symptoms of depression including low mood and anxiety.
Acupuncture for depression works by:
Changes brain chemistry and increases production of serotonin and endorphins (hormones that promote feelings of happiness). Acupuncture has also been shown to act on the neurochemical pathways responsible for the production of dopamine, norepinephrine, cortisol, and neuropeptide Y; They are hormones and amino acids involved in emotional and physiological processes in the central nervous system, helping to regulate appetite and stress responses, and control motivation, memory, and attention. idea.
Stimulating an area of the brain (called the primary somatosensory cortex) reduces sensitivity to pain and stress, and also disables the parsing part of the brain (the amygdala) responsible for anxiety and worry , thus encouraging the body to relax.
Change the way different areas of the brain connect and communicate with each other. Acupuncture has been shown to increase resting brain activity in brain regions (parietal lobes, limbic system, amygdala, hippocampus, cerebellum, and prefrontal cortex) involved in seizure control. pain, emotion, and memory. This is important because research shows that depression is linked to dysfunction in the way parts of the brain that are at rest interact with each other.
Chronic pain relief is often a contributing factor to depression, especially for people with chronic illnesses.
Promotes relaxation and reduces stress by activating the parasympathetic nervous system to initiate the relaxation response. Stress triggers the fight-or-flight response (controlled by the sympathetic nervous system); while the parasympathetic system “also known as the ‘freeze’ response” acts as a brake, helping to relax and calm the nervous system so it can relax.
How long does it take for acupuncture to work for depression?
Because the cause of a person’s depression is often multifactorial, the number of acupuncture sessions you need depends on your medical history, the symptoms of your depression, and how quickly you respond to ‘acupuncture’ treatment. assist’. We usually recommend acupuncture once or twice a week to treat depression; Your acupuncturist will discuss this further after they have evaluated your history.
Treat depression naturally
Depression is a disability with a wide range of symptoms ranging from apathy, sadness and low self-esteem to weight gain and pain. Stress, life challenges, hormonal imbalances, and breakdowns in neurotransmitters can all contribute to depression. Acupuncture is very effective in treating depression, and some studies suggest it is superior to the use of antidepressants because it can regulate hormone levels, reduce stress, and improve the way brain cells communicate with each other. together. Arrange a free call with one of our acupuncturists to discuss how to treat your depression naturally.
