Acupuncture for Depression
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a practice where trained professionals insert very thin yet fine and sterile needles into specific points on the body. These points are chosen based on how they connect to nerves, muscles, and connective tissues. These needles stimulate the nervous system and trigger responses that affect how the body regulates pain, circulation, and certain bodily functions.
Acupuncture influences the release of chemicals in the brain and spinal cord, including those related to pain and mood regulation. The procedure is usually done by licensed practitioners who follow certain safety standards and protocols. It’s one of the most studied types of complementary medicine and is used alongside conventional treatments in many different settings.
Can Acupuncture Help with Depression?
Acupuncture treatment for depression works triggering specific responses in the body and brain. When thin needles are inserted at specifically chosen points, they may stimulate the release of endorphins and influence the activity of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. They both affect mood regulation. Acupuncture could help regulate the nervous system and reduce inflammation, which may be a part of certain types of depression.
Acupuncture for treating mental health disorders has added benefits when used alongside antidepressant medication or talk therapy. For example, it may help lower side effects of medication or increase overall treatment effectiveness. People receiving both acupuncture and psychotherapy may feel more engaged in the process and have a better emotional balance overall.
You may want to notice that results can vary. Acupuncture isn’t always a standalone solution – it depends on the person, their condition, and what other treatments they’re using. Anyone considering acupuncture for depression should speak with a healthcare professional to see if it’s a right fit for you.
Acupuncture Points for Depression
- ST36 (Zusanli). Just below your knee on the lower leg, this point is often used to boost vitality and help you feel more energetic. Stimulating ST36 may help ease fatigue and improve mood regulation.
- SP6 (Sanyinjiao). This point is on the inner side of the lower leg above the ankle. This point influences emotional stability and helps with rest and digestion, which can positively affect mood.
- LV3 (Taichong / Liver 3). On the top of the foot, between the big toe and second toe. It’s used to ease stress, irritability, and emotional tension.
- LI4 (Hegu / Large Intestine 4). This one is between the thumb and index finger. This point is used for general pain-relieving and mood improving.
- HT7 (Shenmen / Heart 7). This point is on the inner wrist, close to the crease and towards the pinky side. It’s usually used for anxiety and emotional turbulence to help you feel calmer and have better sleep.
- DU20 (Baihui / Governing Vessel 20). At the top center of the head. It’s used to help mental clarity, reduce tension, and make you feel calmer.
- Yintang (third-eye point). Between the eyebrows, in the middle of the forehead. It is often chosen to lower anxiety and help quiet an overactive mind.
Benefits of Acupuncture for Depression
Acupuncture therapy for depression can help people who are dealing with depression in a few different ways. It works on the brain by triggering the release of natural chemicals like serotonin and endorphins. These chemicals help with mood, focus, and stress. These changes in brain chemistry can make a person feel better emotionally and mentally.
It also helps calm inflammation in the body, which is sometimes either caused by or contributes to depression. The process of inserting small needles into the skin gently activates the immune system, which can cause a reduction in inflammation over time.
Besides that, acupuncture for mental health helps the nervous system relax. It activates the part of the body that tells you to rest and recover, which can ease tension and help you feel calmer. If you prefer natural options or want to avoid long-term use of medications, acupuncture for mental health may be a right fit for you.
What to Expect from Acupuncture for Depression Treatment
Acupuncture for depression usually begins with a detailed conversation between you and your practitioner. They’ll ask all kinds of questions. Like about how you’re feeling emotionally and physically, what symptoms you’re dealing with, and if you’re currently taking any medication or doing talk therapy. They do it to get a full picture of what you’re going through so they can figure out the best way to help.
After that, they’ll put together a treatment plan that fits your unique needs. This plan can include how often you’ll come in, how many sessions you may need, how long each one will take, and which acupuncture points for depression they’ll use to help with your specific symptoms.
Your practitioner may adjust your plan over time as things change. The treatment is flexible and based on how you’re doing.
With time, once symptoms improve, you might transition to less frequent “maintenance” sessions. These help keep the benefits going without needing constant visits.
Schedule a consultation here to find out!
Acupuncture for Depression at Copper Wellness in Chicago, IL
Getting acupuncture for depression at Copper Wellness in Chicago, IL is a simple yet supportive experience. The care you get isn’t generic – it’s based on what you actually need. Your acupuncturist will ask about how you’ve been feeling, if you’re taking any medications, and what’s worked or hasn’t worked for you so far. Then, we’ll create a treatment plan that fits you and can work in conjunction with things like talk therapy or other support you’re already using.
At Copper Wellness we offer more than just acupuncture. You’ll also find other wellness services like chiropractic services and therapeutic massage, all in one place. That way, you can focus on feeling better without running all over the city looking for help.
If you’re searching for acupuncture Chicago places that feel professional and all about you, Copper Wellness is a great place to start. Book a visit today and see how acupuncture for depression treatment can save your day.
Reviews About Acupuncture for Depression
I am moving from Chicago soon and truly going to miss this amazing clinic.
From the beginning, I was clear that billing transparency was important to me. Despite that, I ran into repeated issues with billing. The clinic charged me estimated amounts that didn’t ultimately match my Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from UnitedHealthcare, and when I brought up the discrepancies—with actual documentation to back it up—I was met with defensiveness rather than a willingness to resolve things collaboratively.
One particularly strange policy I encountered was that this clinic might charge a “clinic fee” if UnitedHealthcare doesn’t accommodate their cash rates. This seems to blur the lines between in-network and out-of-network billing.
Meanwhile, claims weren’t submitted to insurance promptly, which delayed payments and caused unnecessary confusion—none of which was my fault as the patient.
Bottom line: I paid what I was invoiced on time, asked reasonable questions when things didn’t add up, and was made to feel like I was the problem for doing so. I’ve since paused services until this can be sorted out—and I feel compelled to share my experience here.
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FAQs About Acupuncture for Depression
How Acupuncture Works for Depression
Acupuncture works for depression by stimulating specific points on the body that influence the nervous system and brain chemistry. This can help regulate serotonin, dopamine, and cortisol levels, which play a role in mood and stress response. It may also reduce inflammation and promote relaxation, supporting emotional balance. At Copper Wellness in Chicago, IL, acupuncture is used as a complementary approach to improve mental health naturally and holistically.
Does Acupuncture Work for Depression?
Yes, acupuncture may help with depression by stimulating points that influence the nervous system and promote the release of mood-regulating chemicals like serotonin and dopamine. It can also reduce stress, improve sleep, and enhance overall emotional balance. While results can vary, many people report reduced symptoms when acupuncture is used alongside conventional treatments. At Copper Wellness in Chicago, IL, acupuncture is offered as a supportive therapy for those managing depression holistically.
Where Do Acupuncture Needles Go for Depression?
For depression, acupuncture needles are typically placed at points that help regulate mood, calm the nervous system, and restore energy balance. Common locations include the scalp (such as Yintang), ears (like Shen Men), wrists, lower legs, and abdomen. These points are selected based on traditional Chinese medicine principles and individual symptoms. At Copper Wellness in Chicago, IL, acupuncture treatments are personalized to support mental and emotional well-being through targeted point selection.
How Effective Is Acupuncture for Depression?
How Long Does It Take for Acupuncture to Work for Depression?
How Often Should I Get Acupuncture for Depression?
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