Mental health issues affect one in four people globally, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). However, these issues are often stigmatised, making it difficult for individuals to seek help. The good news is that natural health therapies can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall mental health.
In this Mental Health Awareness Week, I explore the benefits of Natural Health Therapies, including Acupuncture, for Mental Health support.
Anxiety and Depression are often terms that many health professionals use, and as a practitioner, I often see patients who are struggling with several symptoms. I practice an integrated style of acupuncture with the connection of Mind, Body and Spirit, which are vital to the energy flow in the body. (for further information, please read "What is Five Element Acupuncture" Blogpost)
Anxiety Symptoms
Excessive Worry
Feeling worried or anxious most of the time about a wide range of issues, often with no apparent reason.
Restlessness
Feeling restless, keyed up, or on edge.
Fatigue
Feeling tired or easily exhausted, even when not engaging in physically or mentally demanding activities.
Difficulty Concentrating
Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank.
Irritability
Feeling irritable or on edge.
Muscle Tension
Muscle tension or soreness, especially in the neck, shoulders, or back.
Sleep Disturbances
Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep or experiencing restless, unsatisfying sleep.
Panic Attacks
Sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort, accompanied by physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, or dizziness.
Avoidance Behavior
Avoiding situations or activities that may trigger anxiety.
Physical Symptoms
Gastrointestinal issues (e.g., stomach aches, diarrhoea), headaches, sweating, trembling, or hot flashes.
Depression symptoms
Loss of Interest or Pleasure
Losing interest in activities or hobbies that were once enjoyable, including sex.
Changes in Appetite or Weight
Significant weight loss or gain or changes in appetite.
Sleep Disturbances
Insomnia (difficulty sleeping) or hypersomnia (excessive sleeping).
Fatigue or Loss of Energy
Feeling tired, physically drained, or lacking in energy.
Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt
Feeling worthless, guilty, or fixating on past failures or perceived faults.
Difficulty Concentrating or Making Decisions
Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, or making decisions.
Irritability or Restlessness
Increased irritability, agitation, or restlessness.
Physical Symptoms
Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause.
Thoughts of Death or Suicide: Persistent thoughts of death, dying, or suicide, or attempting suicide.
It's important to note that experiencing some of these symptoms occasionally does not necessarily indicate a mental health disorder. However, if these symptoms persist over an extended period and interfere with daily functioning, seeking professional help for proper evaluation and treatment is advisable. Additionally, individuals can experience both depression and anxiety simultaneously, which is referred to as comorbid depression and anxiety.
Research shows that Acupuncture can help with depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders by reducing stress hormones and increasing neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.
When I treat my patients, I look at the overall health picture, plan my treatments according to individualised patterns of imbalances and make recommendations based on these. Treatment is always sympathetic and supportive. I use a combination of acupuncture with lifestyle advice and recommendations tailored specifically to your individual patterns that need supoort.
Herbal supplements like St. John’s Wort, Ginseng, Lavender and 5-HTP have been used for centuries to relieve the symptoms of depression and anxiety. These supplements increase neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). However, it’s essential to speak with a qualified healthcare professional before taking any supplements, as they can interact with other medications and have side effects.
Meditation and mindfulness practices involve focusing your attention on the present moment, reducing stress and anxiety. These practices are beneficial for managing symptoms of anxiety and depression and can help improve overall mental well-being. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) are two popular techniques that involve mindfulness practices and have been found effective in treating anxiety and depression.
Exercise is another natural therapy that can help improve mental health by reducing stress and promoting the release of endorphins, the body’s feel-good hormones. Regular exercise has been shown to help alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders.
Diet plays a vital role in mental health. Consuming a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help boost mood and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. It’s also essential to limit the intake of processed sugar and alcohol, as they can worsen symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Natural health therapies, such as acupuncture, herbal supplements, meditation and mindfulness, exercise, and diet, have been used for centuries to improve mental health and alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders. Seeking the help of a healthcare professional to incorporate these natural therapies into your mental health regimen can provide guidance and support. Remember, taking care of your mental health is essential for overall well-being.
If you would like to speak about how acupuncture can help support you please contact me below.
