Understanding How Acupuncture and Counselling Work Together to Treat Anxiety and Depression
Anxiety and depression have become common mental health issues that affect millions of people worldwide. These conditions don’t discriminate and can get triggered by many factors, including work-related stress, family issues, traumatic events, and health problems.
Unfortunately, many sufferers of anxiety and depression shy away from seeking medical assistance due to the stigma attached to psychotherapy and the side effects associated with some medications.
However, the good news is that natural treatments such as counselling and acupuncture are becoming highly acclaimed in the management and treatment of these mental conditions. This post delves into how counselling and acupuncture can significantly alleviate anxiety and depression symptoms.
Counselling For Anxiety and Depression
Counselling entails talking to a therapist who can help you identify the root cause of your anxiety or depression and provide you with coping mechanisms. A skilful counsellor adopts an individualized approach that considers your unique struggles and creates a safe space that enables you to open up about your thoughts and feelings.
The therapist’s primary goal is to help you learn new ways to view situations and equip you with skills that help you deal with them positively. With counselling, you also learn how to cope with negative thoughts and emotions and re-formulate your inner narrative that fuels anxiety and depression.
Acupuncture For Anxiety and Depression
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese healing technique that entails the use of needles inserted into specific points in the body to alleviate pain and promote self-healing. Acupuncture has also been found to be useful in managing symptoms of anxiety and depression.
It works by balancing the body’s energy systems and promoting the production of natural feel-good hormones such as endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine. Acupuncture sessions provide a calming effect that reduces feelings of panic, anxiety, and hopelessness.
The Combination of Counselling and Acupuncture
While counselling and acupuncture are effective in their right, combining them could lead to enhanced results. Combining these two therapeutic approaches can help you tackle the root cause of your anxiety or depression while also improving your physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
Together, they help reduce the impact of traumatic events, aid in problem-solving, and help to create a sense of balance in your brain and body.
Benefits of Counselling and Acupuncture for Anxiety and Depression
Combining counselling and acupuncture has practical benefits that can improve your life in many ways. These include:
- Reduces anxiety and depression symptoms
- Improves mood and self-esteem
- Enhances sleep quality
- Increases energy levels and motivation
- Promotes overall health and wellbeing
- Boosts your immune system
- Improves cognitive function and clarity of thought
- Strengthen relationships and facilitates life satisfaction
Creating an Effective Treatment Plan That Includes Both Acupuncture and Counselling
A good treatment plan should consider the individual’s unique needs and circumstances. It should also take into account the severity of symptoms, any underlying health issues, lifestyle factors, and other relevant information.
It is essential to start with a thorough assessment of your condition before proceeding with any treatment process. The assessment results help to create an actionable treatment plan that involves counselling, acupuncture, and other therapies as deemed necessary.
When creating a plan, it is essential to work with experienced professionals who will provide the best care possible for your physical and mental health. It is also important to monitor progress and adjust the plan when necessary.
At Pillars of Wellness, we offer the possibility to have joint assessments including different professions. For example, a counsellor and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) acupuncturist would seat with you and listen to your needs and the goal you wish to achieve. Then, they will provide you with some recommendations for the best treatment plan to achieve your goal effectively.
Finding the Right Professional for Your Acupuncture and Counselling Needs
It is essential to find qualified professionals who have experience in counselling and acupuncture. You can start by asking for recommendations from your friends or family members who have had positive experiences with a particular therapist or acupuncturist.
You should also do research online and look at reviews of different practitioners in your area. When researching, make sure the therapists are registered in the province you live in. Usually, you will look for a registered social worker (MSW) or a psychotherapist (RP) for counselling services.
For acupuncture, look for professionals who are certified in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and can provide evidence of their qualifications. Also, make sure they are registered with your provincial College.
Conclusion
Dealing with anxiety and depression can be overwhelming, and there is no need to go through it alone. The integration of natural treatments such as counselling and acupuncture can go a long way in calming your mind, regulating your emotions and bringing you back to a place of balance.
Remember, it is never too late or too early to talk to an expert if you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression. Counselling and acupuncture are safe, non-invasive, and highly effective treatments that can help you get back on track and enjoy life to the fullest.
