Acupuncture ... to lift the winter blues!

What prompted me to write this blog on the subject of low mood and acupuncture were conversations with two patients in clinic yesterday. Each patient was being treated for arthritis and hormonal imbalance respectively; however, both noticed a positive change in their mood as a side effect.

During the winter months it is natural to feel low in energy and lack physical motivation; the same can be said for our mental health. With fewer daylight hours and a constant battle against the cold, it is easy for our mood to dip and to feel generally fed up. While it is normal to experience low mood from time to time, for some this mind-set can become chronic and affect their daily life. Patients who suffer with recurrent low mood can also experience other symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, low motivation and self-esteem as well as disturbed sleep. All of which have an impact on their daily life and routines.

Why?

The reason why we feel this way can be caused by a combination of factors, such as biochemical changes in our brain, genetics and chronic pain. It can also be triggered by our body’s response to difficult situations, like stress at work, relationship problems or financial difficulties. Many people who suffer with their mental health often feel isolated as it is generally not a subject that is that is discussed openly and the lack of awareness often means that people suffer in silence. 

What can we do?

In order for us to feel better, we firstly need to address why we are feeling this way. By tackling the root cause, a sustainable recovery is more achievable. In addition to changes made to our daily life, acupuncture can be helpful in improving physical and emotional wellbeing. Acupuncture is thought to stimulate the nervous system, resulting in the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and other endorphins (BAcC, 2017), which have a positive effect on our mental health. Studies have also shown that through the stimulation of specific acupuncture points, areas of the brain responsible for reducing sensitivity to pain and stress are activated (Hui, 2010).

Drawing on clinical experience, patients who seek acupuncture for low mood and symptoms such as anxiety notice an improvement in their outlook and endure fewer symptoms. If you would like to know more about today’s blog or have any further questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Thanks for reading.