A new study conducted at the University of York in the UK and published this week in the online journal PLOS Medicine confirms what those of us who practice acupuncture know well, that acupuncture is an effective treatment for symptoms of depression.
In the study, a total of 755 patients were randomly assigned to receive acupuncture, counseling, or standard medical treatment for their depression symptoms. Patients did not have to discontinue antidepressant medications to participate in the study if they were already taking them.
At the end of the 3-month study, the researchers found that one in three patients who received either acupuncture or counseling were no longer depressed as determined by standard depression scoring used in the study to track patient symptoms. This is compared with one in five patients who received only standard medical care.
In this study, acupuncture was as effective at treating depression as counseling and more effective than standard medical care alone. This is great news for those patients who aren’t getting the symptom relief they desire through counseling and medication. It’s also great news for those who resonate with an alternative or holistic treatment approach. What this study clearly shows us that there are multiple valid and effective treatment options for depression. If counseling and/or medication aren’t working, acupuncture may be a good choice for you.
In my practice, I regularly see patients who have emotional symptoms including depression and anxiety achieve significant relief with acupuncture treatment. Naturopathic treatment strategies like nutrition and lifestyle counseling, herbal medicines, homeopathy, and targeted nutritional supplements also help patients to find and maintain emotional balance.
If you are wondering whether acupuncture or naturopathic care could help you or someone you love, schedule a complimentary 15-minute “Meet the Doctor” visit to learn more.
SOURCE: bit.ly/1803MNo PLOS Medicine, online September 24, 2013