Depression affects about 121 million people worldwide and can be debilitating for those who experience it. Prolonged feelings of sadness, discouragement and hopelessness greatly affect the quality of life.

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At one time or another, most of us have experienced some form of depression. it is a healthy response to events in our lives that seem overwhelming. When we are balanced, physically and emotionally, we can easily bounce back from a depressed state and move on with our lives. When negative feelings and emotions become persistent and consistent, depression may set in.

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Research published in Journal of Affective Disorders in 201 O covered 207 clinical studies conducted on the effectiveness cf acupuncture in treating depressive disorders. According to this, the efficacy of acupuncture was comparable to antidepressants alone in improving clinical response and alleviating symptom severity of Major Depressive Disorder. Additionally, the incidence of adverse reactions of acupuncture treatment was significantly lower than that of antidepressants.

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Quick facts:

Here are some tips to help combat depressive symptoms:

• Develop a supportive group of trusted friends, family,

       and co-workers who can lend an ear and listen to you.

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• Breathe, go slow, and think things through. Do not make

       too many life changes all at once. A few at a time will keep

       you from feeling overwhelmed.

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• Try to get at least twenty minutes of exercise at least three

       days a week, if not more. Take a daily walk, breathe deeply, and let it all go.

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• Remember, you are not alone. Others are having similar experiences.

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How can acupuncture help? Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) incorporate thousands of years of experience in treating depression. Not only can they help to alleviate the signs and symptoms accompanying depression, they can address the root cause(s) and underlying imbalances that have contributed to the problem, safely and naturally.

Acupuncturists are aware of the powerful interplay between our body and emotions, and that the two are inseparable. When we experience emotional upset, our physiological state may become disrupted. Likewise, when we experience physical problems, our emotions can become greatly affected.

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Depressed Qi? Over time, this disruption leads to what an acupuncturist calls "stagnant" or "depressed" Qi, (pronounced "see") or vital energy. Qi is a concept unique to the theories and principles of TCM. According to these theories, Qi is the vital energy that animates the body and protects it from illness and pain. lt flows through the body in pathways called meridians. When it becomes stagnant or depressed, physical and/or emotional symptoms result. Practitioners of acupuncture and TCM are specifically trained to detect and correct imbalances in the human body. Treatments are focused on balancing and activating the Qi by manipulating corresponding points on the body.

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The stagnant or depressed Qi diagnosis is unique to acupuncture and TCM. Over time, if it is not addressed it can lead to a disharmony within our body, affecting our physical and emotional well-being, which may lead to depression.

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What will an acupuncturist do? An acupuncturist will take a complete health history in order to find out where, why, and how Qi has become stagnant or depressed. They will develop a unique treatment plan tailored to specific signs and symptoms of each individual.

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Typically, the treatment plan goals will be to activate the movement of Qi throughout the entire body, as well as to address the root cause(s) and underlying imbalances. By treating the body as a whole and unique organism, your acupuncturist will support you in your recovery from illness and disease, moving you toward health and happiness.

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Acupuncture and TCM provide safe, natural, and effective ways to address depression. The focus is to restore a balanced and continuous flow of Oi throughout the body and mind. Acupuncture is not a "quick fix." You may need to receive weeks or months of treatment in order to see lasting results. Every person is unique so give yourself the time required to experience the maximum benefits that acupuncture and TCM have to offer.