Acupuncture for Anxiety
Anxiety
Anxiety is a universal emotion, but for some, it becomes chronic and debilitating, affecting daily life. Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is the most common form, alongside conditions like panic disorder, phobias, PTSD, and social anxiety.
Symptoms of anxiety manifest in various physical and mental ways, including:
​
-
Churning sensation in the stomach
-
Heart palpitations
-
Dizziness
-
Insomnia
-
Pins and needles sensation
-
Sweating or hot flashes
-
Changes in bathroom habits
-
Fluctuations in sex drive
-
Headaches
-
Nausea
-
Aches and pains
These symptoms can significantly impact one's quality of life, making it essential to seek support and treatment to manage anxiety effectively.
Acupuncture Research for Anxiety
Acupuncture has emerged as a safe and gentle treatment option for anxiety, endorsed by Anxiety UK alongside other therapies like counselling and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
​
Research indicates that acupuncture effectively addresses anxiety by modulating the nervous system. It deactivates the sympathetic nervous system, responsible for the fight or flight response, while simultaneously stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and a sense of calm.
​
Moreover, acupuncture regulates neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation, including noradrenaline, serotonin, dopamine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). By balancing these neurotransmitters, acupuncture helps to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and promote emotional well-being.
​
Overall, acupuncture offers a holistic approach to managing anxiety, providing relief by harmonising the body's physiological responses and promoting mental relaxation.