Acupuncture for Depression: Benefits, Limitations, & What to Expect

What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture refers to a traditional Chinese medicine of puncturing the skin with thin metallic needles. It’s a traditional Chinese medicine that’s been used for centuries to treat various health issues.² Some medicine practitioners believe the human body contains more than 2,000 acupuncture points, and these pathways create energy flow.² This theory suggests that disruptions to this flow may be associated with mental health issues like depression.

Although it may sound painful, most people report little to no pain during acupuncture and depression treatments. Sometimes practitioners heat the needles beforehand. People may leave treatment feeling energized, relaxed, tired, or calm. The FDA currently regulates acupuncture needles, and it’s important to seek treatment from a qualified practitioner. In addition to treating depression, acupuncture may be used for numerous physical and mental health conditions.¹

How Can Acupuncture Help With Depression?

Acupuncture may improve depression symptoms, and it’s become a more popular alternative treatment for depression. Although it originated in China, it’s become more well-known and mainstream since the 1970s. While it’s most commonly used to treat pain, research shows acupuncture can help with depression because it also has nonspecific effects including the belief in treatment, the relationship between practitioner and individual, and other potential factors associated with feeling calm and relaxed after treatment sessions.³

Here are some potential benefits of acupuncture for depression:

• Stress reduction: Acupuncture may reduce stress and anxiety symptoms. It’s common for people to experience anxiety with depression, so this treatment may help with both sets of symptoms.
• Improved sleep: Some research shows that acupuncture can improve overall sleep quality and duration compared to control groups.³ Because there’s a relationship between depression and poor sleep, this treatment may help improve both conditions.
• Enhanced mood regulation: Acupuncture may influence the release of neurotransmitters of dopamine and serotonin.⁴ This can affect emotional states, which may improve depression symptoms. and hormones associated with mood regulation.

How Can Acupuncture Help With Co-Occurring Depression & Anxiety?

Acupuncture may improve both symptoms of depression and anxiety. Unlike other treatment approaches, there are limited to no side effects, and it can also be safely used on pregnant women. Most people find acupuncture to be relaxing and calming, and it may also support chronic pain symptoms that may coincide with mood symptoms.

Can Acupuncture Effectively Treat Depression?

No one treatment effectively cures depression. In fact, mental health providers tend to focus on symptom management and crisis stabilization when it comes to treating mental health issues. That said, acupuncture can help manage symptoms of depression. These effects may be enhanced when acupuncture is used in conjunction with other treatment methods.

How Fast Does Acupuncture Work for Depression?

Everyone responds differently to acupuncture treatment. Some people notice symptom relief after just 1-2 sessions. However, others may note that it takes several months to notice the effects of acupuncture. Treatment efficacy depends on numerous variables including the type of depression symptoms, their intensity, and the individual’s responsiveness to other treatment methods.

Are There Specific Types Of Depression That Respond Better To Acupuncture?

Depression is colloquially used as an umbrella term for various depression disorders, including major depressive disorder, dysthymic disorder, disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, and more. Depression can also be a feature of bipolar disorder and other mental health conditions. With that, there is limited research on which types of depression specifically respond best to acupuncture.

How Long Do the Benefits of Acupuncture for Depression Last?

The specific effects of acupuncture range based on individual characteristics. There is no universal answer for how long acupuncture benefits last. Some people may note relief for a few days after treatment, whereas others may experience changes that persist for several weeks or months. The benefits may last longer when acupuncture is used in conjunction with other treatment approaches.

Can You Use Acupuncture as a Solo Treatment?

It’s certainly possible to try acupuncture as a standalone depression treatment. However, most mental health professionals recommend people consider embracing a multifaceted approach when managing their mental health. Relying on just one method may backfire, particularly if outcomes are weak or diminish over time. Most people pair acupuncture with other conventional treatment approaches.

Criticism & Limitations of Acupuncture for Depression

Research on the efficacy of acupuncture for depression is relatively limited. With that, it’s also challenging to create an optimal control group. This is because people often use other treatment approaches, including depression therapy, medications for depression, and various lifestyle changes in conjunction with acupuncture. Therefore, it can be hard to discern placebo effects and which methods actually target depression.

Acupuncture for Depression Treatment Process

Acupuncture for depression starts with a preliminary exam where your acupuncturist will explore any imbalances present in your body. They will also assess your current medical needs and psychiatric history. You’ll be encouraged to share any symptoms that are currently bothering you. Based on this information, your provider will determine the appropriate locations for inserting needles.

Consultation & Assessment

Your acupuncture and depression consultation will consist of getting to know the acupuncturist and discussing the logistics of treatment. You will have the opportunity to ask any questions about the process, and your provider will spend time assessing your specific symptoms to best tailor their treatment plan for your care. In addition to depression, they will also screen for other co-occurring physical or mental health issues.

Needle Insertion & Treatment

Typical acupuncture includes sitting or lying down on a table. The acupuncturist will usually keep the room dark and may play calming, pleasant music to help you relax. They will then insert needles into designated points on the body (known as meridians). After insertion, the acupuncturist will check on you throughout this time to ensure you’re comfortable.⁵ If you feel any pain, they will adjust the needle positioning or location.

Frequency & Duration

A typical acupuncture session may range from 30-60 minutes, and it’s common for people to receive treatment 1-2x per week. However, some people attend up to 5 sessions per week. Treatment duration varies, but it’s typical for an average length of treatment to last between 1-3 months.⁶ Some people will routinely engage in acupuncture at various points in life.

Safety & Considerations of Acupuncture for Depression

Acupuncture is generally considered a safe treatment approach. However, it’s ideal to look for a licensed acupuncturist. Licensure ensures that your provider has completed a rigorous training program and state board licensing exam. Licensed acupuncturists must also comply with all current laws and ethics and maintain continuing education. The right provider will be sensitive to your needs and value building a meaningful relationship with you.

Potential side effects of acupuncture for depression include:⁷

• Bleeding or bruising
• Headache
• Dull pain
• Skin allergy reactions
• Minor swelling
• Numbness
• Mild edema
• Fatigue
• Discomfort
• Fever
• Heat/sweating
• Gastrointestinal distress

Who May Not Be A Good Fit for Acupuncture Treatment?

Although acupuncture is widely used, it is not the right treatment for everyone.  Acupuncture can exacerbate certain medical conditions, and there is a risk of side effects associated with this treatment. Pregnant women may be suitable for acupuncture, but it’s always important to consult with your healthcare provider and be aware of the potential risks.

Individuals who would not be a good fit for acupuncture include:¹

• Infants and young children
• Individuals with severe needle phobias
• Individuals with compromised immune systems
• Individuals with pacemakers
• Individuals with chronic skin problems
• Individuals who have breast or other implants

How to Find an Acupuncture for Depression Practitioner

Many people begin searching for an acupuncturist using the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture (AAMA) directory. This directory is the professional organization of MDs and DOs that use acupuncture. It’s considered to have the highest standards of training recognized by the World Health Organization, and there are 1000+ listed physicians in North America. In addition, you can also ask your doctor or therapist for an acupuncturist referral.

Cost of Acupuncture for Depression

Some health insurance plans cover acupuncture when they deem it medically necessary and when it’s prescribed by your doctor. In many cases, acupuncture is covered for chronic pain, but you may be less likely to receive coverage specifically for depression. Costs of acupuncture vary, but you can expect to spend between $75-$150 per session.

Integrating Acupuncture With Conventional Depression Treatment

Acupuncture is a widely used holistic approach that can be integrated into an overall treatment plan for depression. As a standalone treatment, it may effectively reduce some depression symptoms. However, like most treatment methods, experts believe that acupuncture works best when it’s paired with other conventional approaches like therapy, medication, and individual lifestyle changes.

Acupuncture can be integrated into the following treatment options:

• Psychodynamic therapy: Psychodynamic therapy focuses on early relationships and how those past experiences affect present functioning. This insight can help people better understand the origin of their depression, which can help them change how they cope with difficult emotions in the here and now.
• Medications: There are many different medications for depression, and SSRIs are prescribed most frequently. These medications help stabilize essential neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT for depression focuses on changing negative thought patterns. This restructuring can improve behavioral patterns and also lift self-esteem.
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): DBT for depression targets issues related to mindfulness, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance. Practicing these skills can improve the overall quality of life.
• Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT): ACT for depression blends mindfulness with behavioral strategies, and it can help encourage people to act in ways that are congruent with their life values.
• Group therapy: Group therapy provides a sense of peer support and connectivity for people experiencing similar issues. Group topics may focus on depression, self-esteem, self-care, and other pertinent mental health issues.

When to Seek Professional Support

Depression can be complex, and your symptoms may worsen without professional treatment. If you’re struggling to manage your daily functioning- or things just feel like they’re unstable- seeking help can make a significant difference. Look for a therapist specializing in depression- you can browse through our online therapist directory or consider an online therapy for depression platform. If you’d like to review medication options, consult with a psychiatrist.