In the past eight years of practicing acupuncture, I realized that more than 50% of clients come to me due to stress, depression, anxiety, panic attacks. Some of them have been to psychological sessions (Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Brain Stimulation Therapy, etc.) or still under medications (antidepressants and others), but they want to build off the dosage or just feel like to release their negative energy in a natural way. Some prefer not to talk too much to therapists and choose acupuncture for a just-do-it way. Others are still in the long waiting list of psychology therapy and take the time in between to visit me. No matter what, I find it great to solve their emotional and mental problems with acupuncture or Traditional herbal medicine.
First, stress, depression and anxiety are different mental health disorders in western medicine. However, Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) does not separate the mind and body. Emotional well-being is inseparable from physical health.
Depression
is when your heart and mind stay stuck in the past – replaying old moments, regrets, or what-ifs that cannot be changed. If is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of helplessness, hopelessness and sadness and loss of interest in daily activities, anger or irritability, appetite or weight changes, sleep changes, loss of energy, self-loathing and reckless behavior.
Stress
is when you carry the weight of the present on your shoulders – overthinking responsibilities, problems, and daily struggles. It can cause a lot of physical symptoms, including: low energy, headaches, stomach upset, diarrhea, constipation and nausea, aches, pains, and tense muscles, chest pain and rapid heartbeat, insomnia and low libido.
Anxiety
is when you mind races toward the future – imagining fears, uncertainties, and outcomes that haven’t even happened yet. The clinical symptoms vary depending on the type of anxiety disorder, but generally include:
- feelings of panic
- fear
- uneasiness
- sleeping disorder
- cold or sweaty hands and/or feet
- shortness of breath
- palpitations
- restlessness
- dry mouth
- numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
None of these states serve your peace. The past is already written. The future is yet to unfold. The present is the only place where life truly happens.
What now?
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