Ear & Scalp Acupuncture Treatments Improve Mental Health

The holiday season, and the shorter days, can add to the suffering of people challenged by chronic and resistant mental health concerns, e.g., Stress, Anxiety, and Depression.

A variety of drugs have been prescribed to manage these conditions, (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclics,  benzodiazepines)  but their “convenience” has not improved the quality of life for many. These powerful drugs can become daily habits that foster dependencies.

Extended use of powerful psychoactive drugs can have limited benefits for many, and compliance , i.e., taking the drugs regularly, can be a challenge.  One of the reasons is that many apparently feel like they are wearing a mental straightjacket, i.e., an inability to have normal cognitive functions.

In my clinical work, treating people with addictions, I have recognized that patients who have positive outcomes have developed a long term plan to reduce drug dependencies.

Work by groups like Acupuncturists Without Borders, around the world, have demonstrated that regular acupuncture (e.g., ear, scalp) can reduce feelings of overwhelming stress and anxiety, especially among first responders to areas that experience natural disasters.   The mechanism of action is an increased relaxation response, without the use of drugs. I believe that these protocols can also help those suffering during the dark season of the year.

Costs for these services are in the range of copays for specialized healthcare. It is affordable to get 2-3 treatments per week, for a few weeks, while you explore non-drug approaches to improve chronic and resistant mental health concerns.

Concerned about a loved one who is suffering? Call the clinic (503-682-9319) for more info.