Anxiety disorders constitute the most common type of mental illness in the United States, with approximately 19% of the adult population, or 40 million people, experiencing an anxiety disorder each year. An estimated 30% of the population experiences an anxiety disorder at some point during their lives
Acupuncture for anxiety works by
Downregulating the body’s stress response by balancing neurotransmitters and hormones. Stress triggers the production of certain hormones (cortisol and adrenaline) to enable the body to deal with stress accordingly. Chronic stress can reduce your serotonin levels, associated with happiness and feelings of well-being. Acupuncture can help balance these hormones and reduce anxiety symptoms.
Deactivating the “analytical” brain, responsible for anxiety and worries, and acting on the primary somatosensory cortex, the area in the middle of the brain known to reduce sensitivity to stress and pain.
Acupuncture stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system to initiate the relaxation response. When we get stressed, our sympathetic nervous system gets switched on, which triggers physiological and emotional changes within the body, including anxiety. The parasympathetic nervous system acts like a brake. When stimulated, it will calm your nervous system down to help you relax.
Acupuncture regulates the release of inflammatory markers and chemicals associated with anxiety. Emotional disturbances and anxiety can lead to lowered immune system function and increased inflammation in the body. Acupuncture has been shown to restore immune function when anxiety is present.
Reverse the effects of stress-induced behavioural and biochemical changes triggered when someone experiences anxiety.