Anxiety is the anticipation of future threat. Though it is normal to have a certain amount of anxiety, 40 million people in the United States suffer from anxiety disorders, which are characterized by excessive or persisting anxiety. These disorders develop from risk factors including genetics, brain chemistry, lifestyle, personality, and life events. Excessive anxiety can cause distress and impairment in social, occupational, and other important areas of functioning.
Treatment with Acupuncture
Acupuncture can be used as a quick and effective treatment for anxiety. Acupuncture works on areas of the brain known to reduce pain and stress, while promoting relaxation, and deactivating the 'analytical' brain, which is responsible for anxiety. Further, acupuncture stimulates the nervous system, releasing neurochemical messenger molecules. These biochemical changes promote homeostasis, thus promoting emotional and physical well-being.
Treatment with Chinese Herbs
Though acupuncture creates the most immediate anxiety relief, Chinese herbal medicine can supplement acupuncture treatment for a more long-term anxiety reduction plan. Some common individual herbs used in anxiety formulas are Jujube Dates and Angelica Root. Ask your acupuncturist to make you a customized anxiety formula to help with your symptoms.
Treatment with Diet
Diet modification can help relieve anxiety symptoms too. Eating too many refined sugars can create blood sugar and insulin fluctuations that can affect your mood and mental health. They also deplete the body of B vitamins, which regulate your nervous system. Caffeine can also increase anxiety symptoms and lead to adrenal exhaustion and depression. Ask your acupuncturist for dietary advice that could help alleviate your anxiety symptoms.
If you want relief from anxiety, call to schedule an appointment or a free 15 minute consultation today.
Resources:
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders : DSM-5(5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Association. https://adaa.org/about-adaa/press-room/facts-statistics https://www.pacificcollege.edu/news/blog/2014/10/04/anxiety-disorders-and-traditional-chinese-medicine
