Acupuncture for Depression in Craigavon

Natural, gentle support for depression and mood disorders using traditional Chinese medicine at Sino Health

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Important Notice

Acupuncture can be used as a complementary treatment alongside conventional depression therapy. Always consult with your GP or mental health professional before making changes to your depression treatment plan. If you're experiencing thoughts of self-harm, please contact emergency services or the Samaritans immediately.

How Acupuncture Supports Mental Health

Depression affects millions of people, and while conventional treatments are important, many people find acupuncture provides valuable additional support. At Sino Health in Craigavon, Mrs Chen uses traditional Chinese medicine to help regulate mood, improve energy, and support overall mental wellbeing.

Depression Symptoms We Can Help Support

  • Low mood and sadness: Persistent feelings of sadness or emptiness
  • Fatigue and low energy: Feeling tired and lacking motivation
  • Sleep disturbances: Insomnia or sleeping too much
  • Loss of interest: Reduced enjoyment in activities
  • Concentration problems: Difficulty focusing or making decisions
  • Physical symptoms: Headaches, digestive issues, body aches
  • Anxiety accompanying depression: Worry and restlessness

How Acupuncture May Help with Depression:

  • Stimulates release of endorphins (natural mood elevators)
  • Regulates neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine
  • Reduces stress hormones like cortisol
  • Improves sleep quality and energy levels
  • Promotes deep relaxation and emotional balance
  • Addresses physical symptoms that accompany depression

Traditional Chinese Medicine View of Depression

In TCM, depression is often seen as a result of imbalanced energy flow (Qi) and can involve patterns such as:

  • Liver Qi Stagnation: Emotional blockages leading to frustration and low mood
  • Heart and Kidney Imbalance: Affecting emotional regulation and mental clarity
  • Spleen Qi Deficiency: Leading to fatigue, poor concentration, and digestive issues
  • Blood Stasis: Poor circulation affecting both physical and emotional health

Mrs Chen's treatment approach addresses these underlying patterns to restore balance and support natural healing.

Research Evidence for Acupuncture and Depression

Multiple clinical studies have shown promising results for acupuncture in supporting mental health:

  • A 2018 systematic review found acupuncture significantly reduced depression scores
  • Studies show acupuncture may be as effective as some antidepressants for mild to moderate depression
  • Research indicates acupuncture enhances the effectiveness of conventional depression treatments
  • Brain imaging studies show acupuncture activates areas involved in mood regulation

Your Treatment Approach

Mrs Chen's compassionate approach to mental health support includes:

Initial Assessment

  • Confidential discussion of your mental health history
  • Understanding your specific depression symptoms
  • TCM diagnosis to identify underlying imbalances
  • Collaborative treatment planning

Treatment Plan

  • Regular Acupuncture: Typically weekly sessions to start
  • Point Selection: Specific combinations for mood regulation
  • Lifestyle Support: Guidance on sleep, exercise, and stress management
  • Ongoing Monitoring: Regular assessment of progress and wellbeing

What to Expect

Many people notice improvements in their depression symptoms within several weeks of starting treatment. Common improvements include:

  • Better sleep quality
  • Increased energy levels
  • Improved mood stability
  • Better concentration and focus
  • Reduced physical symptoms
  • Enhanced sense of wellbeing

Complementary Approach

Acupuncture works well alongside other depression treatments:

  • Can complement antidepressant medications
  • Supports counselling and psychotherapy
  • Enhances lifestyle interventions like exercise
  • May help reduce medication side effects

Crisis Support Resources

If you're having thoughts of self-harm or suicide:

  • • Emergency Services: 999
  • • Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7)
  • • Crisis Lifeline NI: 0808 196 9293
  • • Your GP or local mental health services

Take a Step Toward Better Mental Health

You don't have to face depression alone. Discover how acupuncture can support your journey to better mental wellness.

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