Mental Health Disorders and Others

Stress, Anxiety, and Depression

Mental wellness is equally important as physical well-being. Stress, anxiety and depression can all negatively impact an individual’s quality of life and even precipitate additional illnesses. To address them, Western doctors often prescribe medication for patients such as antidepressants, anti-anxiolytics or mood stabilizers but these drugs often come with unpleasant side effects. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a natural alternative to Western medication that works holistically to help balance the body’s energy (Qi) and relax patients. Treatments will vary depending on the patient and the condition.

Fatigue

Patients suffering from chronic fatigue feel inexplicable tiredness that is not remedied with sleep or rest. It can often be debilitating and hinder patients from accomplishing their day-to-day activities. Traditional Chinese Medicine can treat fatigue by balancing the body’s energy (Qi) in order to help patients relax and recover. Each patient is unique and will therefore be treated with an optimized and customized treatment plan.

Cancer Support Care

Traditional Chinese Medicine is often used as a complementary treatment for patients battling cancer. While TCM cannot directly cure cancer, it employs natural methods to support the body’s immune system and regenerating capabilities to promote self-healing. Many patients also seek TCM to help with post-chemotherapy symptoms. Treatments can vary depending on the patient and situation, and individualized treatment plans will be created by the practitioner.

Smoking and Additions

It has long been known that smoking can cause numerous health problems such as high blood pressure, lung cancer, tooth decay as well as the inherent addiction that comes with nicotine use. As such, due to the addictive nature of cigarettes, many people find it difficult to quit smoking without some form of aid.

In targeting smoking addiction, acupuncture has proven to be an effective treatment and has helped many people overcome their dependence on tobacco and other addictive substances. Because of this, acupuncture is widely used in drug detox clinics around the world. Acupuncture treatments can help people quit smoking by altering their perceived taste of tobacco into a less pleasant one which decreases their desire to smoke. In addition, it also aids in relaxation and detoxification.

When treating smoking addiction with acupuncture, the length and frequency of each treatment will vary by person. Typical treatments may last anywhere from half an hour to one hour, one or two times a week. Some symptoms may see relief after only the first session but severe or chronic ailments, such as fatigue and cravings, will require longer and multiple treatments. Furthermore, lifestyle and dietary changes are also necessary to improve treatment results. The patient is recommended to incorporate more fresh fruit and vegetables into his or her diet and to avoid junk food, high-sugar foods, chocolate and coffee. It is also important to drink more water and engage in more exercise. In addition, patients are also recommended to distance themselves from other smokers, as their habits and ready supply of nicotine may prove an unwanted temptation that facilitates relapse.

While acupuncture is not a magical cure for addiction, it can be highly effective at managing cravings and lessening the symptoms of withdrawal associated with quitting. Acupuncture treatments can also lessen common withdrawal symptoms such as jitters, cravings, irritability, and restlessness.