Can Acupuncture Help Improve Depression?

Acupuncture, an ancient healing practice, is gaining attention as a potential treatment for depression. Targeting specific points on the body is believed to restore balance and alleviate emotional distress. However, the relationship between acupuncture for mental health and depression is complex. While some studies suggest positive outcomes, the evidence remains mixed, with individual factors like the severity of depression and personal responsiveness influencing its overall effectiveness.

Understanding Acupuncture and Depression

Acupuncture: The insertion of very thin needles through your skin at strategic points on your body. 

Depression: Depression is a common mental health disorder characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest, and a range of emotional and physical problems that can interfere with daily life.

Can Acupuncture Help Improve Depression?

Acupuncture therapy has been found to reduce cortisol levels and hyperactivity of the HPA axis, which helps relieve depressive symptoms. Acupuncture's benefits for depression relief can be seen in its ability to complement proven treatments like therapy or medication.

Research Findings on How Acupuncture Helps Improve Depression

Neurotransmitter production: Acupuncture treatment has been shown to increase the production of serotonin and other neurotransmitters in the brain, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. 

Reduces depression: A 2018 review of 64 studies found that needle therapy compared to no treatment, waitlisting, or treatment as usual. The review found that the practice:

• may slightly decrease the severity of depression in comparison with a placebo
• may cause fewer negative side effects than medication
• can substantially reduce depression symptoms in combination with medication

A 2023 study reported that In an 8-week acupuncture study of 151 men and women, researchers found that depressive symptoms improved significantly.

Endorphin release: It stimulates endorphin release, enhancing mood and promoting a sense of well-being, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms.

Stress response regulation: Acupuncture therapy lowers cortisol, a stress hormone, helping to reduce chronic stress and improve mood.

Anti-inflammatory effects: It has anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing brain inflammation linked to depression.

Improved circulation: Acupuncture enhances blood flow and oxygenation, supporting brain function and mood regulation.

Neural plasticity: It promotes neural plasticity, helping to rewire pathways involved in mood regulation.

Complementary therapy: Acupuncture can boost the effectiveness of conventional treatments or serve as an alternative to non-drug approaches.

What’s the Success Rate of Acupuncture in Improving Depression?

Incorporating traditional Chinese medicine offers a holistic treatment approach to mental well-being, focusing on mind-body balance, which can be vital in managing depression. A 2024 meta-analysis indicated a significant therapeutic effect of acupuncture treatment on depression symptoms was significantly more effective compared to standalone medication.

Symptoms of Depression to check. This will help you understand when to seek help:

Emotional Symptoms

• Persistent Sadness: A continuous feeling of sadness or emptiness.
• ⁠Irritability: Increased frustration or anger over minor issues.
• Feelings of Hopelessness: A belief that things will never get better.
• ⁠Guilt or Worthlessness: Excessive feelings of guilt or a sense of being a failure.

Physical Symptoms

• Changes in Appetite: Significant weight loss or gain, or changes in eating habits.
• Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia or sleeping too much.
• Fatigue: A constant feeling of tiredness or lack of energy.
• ⁠Aches and Pains: Unexplained physical symptoms, such as headaches or digestive issues.

Cognitive Symptoms

• ⁠Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble focusing, making decisions, or remembering things.
• Negative Thinking: A tendency to dwell on negative thoughts or events.

Behavioural Symptoms 

• ⁠Withdrawal from Social Activities: Avoiding friends, family, and previously enjoyed activities.
• ⁠Decreased Performance: A decline in work or academic performance.

For personalised guidance, consult your healthcare provider and explore the Mave Health Program for a tailored mental health strategy. Take the next step - discuss acupuncture with your doctor today.

Do Read More About Depression

1. Supporting a Loved One with Depression: Practical Tips
2. Foods for Depression: What to Eat and What to Avoid
3. How Meditation Can Help with Depression?
4. tDCS Device for Depression Treatment

Conclusion

Acupuncture for mental health offers a promising, multifaceted approach to depression by regulating neurotransmitters, reducing stress, and promoting well-being. However, individual responses vary.

Citation

1. Acupuncture. (n.d.). Retrieved 30 September 2024, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/acupuncture/about/pac-20392763
2. Amend Treatment. (2023, March 9). 5 acupuncture benefits for mental health. Retrieved 30 September 2024, from Amend Treatment website: https://amendtreatment.com/acupuncture-benefits-for-mental-health/
3. Pugle, M., & Chu, G. (n.d.). Acupuncture for depression: Is it worth trying? Retrieved 30 September 2024, from Everydayhealth.com website: https://www.everydayhealth.com/depression/is-acupuncture-any-help-for-depression/
4. Smith, C. A., Armour, M., Lee, M. S., Wang, L.-Q., & Hay, P. J. (2018). Acupuncture for depression. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 3(3), CD004046. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD004046.pub4
5. Sun, B., Cao, X., Xin, M., & Guan, R. (2024). Treatment of depression with acupuncture based on pathophysiological mechanism. International Journal of General Medicine, 17, 347–357. doi:10.2147/IJGM.S448031
6. Tan, Y., Duan, R., & Wen, C. (2024). Efficacy of acupuncture for depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 18, 1347651. doi:10.3389/fnins.2024.1347651
7. Villines, Z. (2022, May 31). Acupuncture for depression: Results, what the research says, and more. Retrieved 30 September 2024, from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/acupuncture-for-depression
8. What to know about acupuncture for depression. (n.d.). Retrieved 30 September 2024, from WebMD website: https://www.webmd.com/depression/what-to-know-about-acupuncture-for-depression
9. Image Designed By Freepik