How can Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Help Anxiety?

Acupuncture works to restore a calm and centered state of mind. Acupuncture points are inserted into specific locations in the body to help regulate the autonomic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system is the part of our body that is responsible for the “fight or flight” response. Normally stress stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, allowing extra energy to respond to a threat. However, when anxiety occurs at inappropriate times, occurs frequently, or is so intense and long-lasting that it interferes with a person’s normal activities, it is an indication that the sympathetic nervous system is overworking. When acupuncture needles are inserted into specific points, it has an immediate, regulatory effect on the nervous system. The parasympathetic nervous system, which has a counter-balancing effect on the sympathetic nervous system, is stimulated so that the heart rate slows down and the body and mind can begin to relax.

What Can I Expect with Treatment?

Acupuncture is relaxing and not painful. At your first visit, your acupuncturist will ask you a number of questions about the quality and characteristics of your anxiety. This is because, in Chinese medicine, it is important to distinguish what makes your anxious states different from someone else’s. For instance, before your visit, it will be helpful for you to pay attention to your sleep patterns, your energy levels, your digestion and any other physical symptoms you may experience regularly. These different aspects of your condition paint a collective picture by which Chinese medicine is able to diagnose and treat the particular nature of your anxiety.

Treatments are relaxing and in general, you should experience almost immediate relief of any acute symptoms. Whether you are having panic attacks or experience general anxiety, over the course of regular treatment, symptoms will decrease in severity and frequency. How long or how often you will need to come depends on how long and how severely you experience anxiety. Once symptoms have been alleviated, monthly or quarterly treatments are helpful to maintain the balance.

What About Herbs and Medications?

Your acupuncturist can prescribe herbs if you are not on medication. Chinese herbs can be a safe and side-effect free way to address symptoms of anxiety as well as any other physical symptoms you may be experiencing, such as insomnia, pain, digestive difficulties or others.