Positive Findings for Acupuncture and Depression

By Toby Helmstetter, LAc

A recent study showed that acupuncture was as successful as counselling for the treatment of depression. The study, a randomized controlled trial published in September, demonstrated that acupuncture is a viable, non-pharmacological option that can safely and effectively treat moderate to severe depression. And, when compared to counselling, acupuncture was equally helpful at providing a significant reduction in symptoms. You can read the actual study here. And this article gives a great report on the study, pointing out the patient-driven need for alternatives to anti-depressants.

We see many people for depression at TAC. In my practice, I have found acupuncture to be extremely effective at treating many different types of depression and it's associated symptoms. Whether a person is on medications or not, acupuncture treatments help provide balance when life feels unbalanced, overwhelming, or scary. With acupuncture I have seen people who just want to lie in bed find the energy and joy to face the day again. I've seen people who have a negative, self-defeating tape playing over and over in their heads find peace and begin to trust themselves. And it's very effective at treating the insomnia, physical pain, food cravings or aversions, and fatigue that go along with depression. For these people, acupuncture has become a part of their arsenal, a tool in their toolbox, for living a balanced and joyful life. It is always thrilling when the results of a study find what we get to see in our clinics every day, and it's exciting to be able to share the good news with you, our readers, too!