Can acupuncture help with mental health issues?

Acupuncture has been increasingly recognised for its potential benefits in treating a variety of  physical conditions, including chronic pain, digestive issues, respiratory disorders and infertility. However, have you ever wondered if acupuncture can help with mental health issues?

At Melbourne Acupuncture Wellness, we are often asked if acupuncture can help with mental health problems, especially those arising from family violence, trauma and other distressing events. This blog explores how acupuncture can contribute to mental health improvement and support the healing process for those who have experienced significant emotional and psychological challenges.

4 ways acupuncture supports mental health

Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow (Qi) and restore balance.

The ancient practice has been used for centuries to treat physical ailments and is now gaining traction as a complementary therapy for mental health issues. The benefits of acupuncture for mental health are increasingly being supported by scientific research and clinical evidence.

For example:

1. Acupuncture can help reduce stress by stimulating the body’s parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and decreasing the production of stress hormones such as cortisol. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing anxiety, depression or PTSD following family violence or other trauma.
2. By balancing the body’s energy flow and stimulating the release of endorphins and other neurotransmitters, acupuncture can help regulate mood and improve overall emotional wellbeing. This makes it a valuable tool for managing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
3. Many mental health issues are accompanied and accentuated by sleep disturbances. Acupuncture can help improve sleep quality by regulating the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle and addressing underlying issues such as stress and anxiety that may be contributing to insomnia.
4. Acupuncture has been shown to improve cognitive function by increasing blood flow to the brain and promoting neural health. This can help individuals struggling with memory, focus and decision-making, which are often associated with mental health conditions.

Acupuncture and healing from trauma

Trauma, including distress resulting from family violence, can have significant effects on the body. However, the prolonged impact on mental health can last even longer and be more difficult to treat.

Acupuncture offers a holistic approach to help people heal from family violence and trauma by addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of recovery.

• Trauma can lead to an overactive sympathetic nervous system, resulting in chronic stress and anxiety. Acupuncture helps to balance the nervous system, promoting a state of calm and relaxation that can aid in the healing process.
• Acupuncture can facilitate the release of pent-up emotions and energy blockages that may have resulted from traumatic experiences. This can help individuals process and move past their trauma, leading to improved emotional resilience.
• Trauma often manifests in physical symptoms such as chronic pain, digestive issues and headaches. By addressing these physical symptoms, acupuncture can help individuals feel better overall and more capable of coping with their emotional challenges.

 Case studies and clinical evidence

Several studies have highlighted the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating mental health conditions.

For example, research published in the Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease found that acupuncture significantly reduced symptoms of anxiety in patients compared to those who received conventional treatments alone.

Another study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine reported that acupuncture was effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD in military veterans.

At Melbourne Acupuncture Wellness, we have witnessed firsthand the positive impact of acupuncture on our clients’ mental health. Our holistic approach ensures that each treatment plan is tailored to the individual’s unique needs, considering their personal history, current symptoms and overall health goals.

Acupuncture provides a natural approach to mental health care

While acupuncture is not a standalone cure for mental health issues, it can be a powerful complementary therapy that supports overall wellbeing and recovery. For those struggling with the aftermath of trauma, including family violence, acupuncture offers a holistic approach that addresses both physical and emotional healing.

If you live in Melbourne and are considering acupuncture for mental health support, Melbourne Acupuncture Wellness is here to help. Our experienced practitioners provide compassionate, individualised care to help you achieve optimal mental health and wellbeing.