Can acupuncture treat depression and anxiety?

In general, depressive and anxiety disorders refer to depression and anxiety. Whether acupuncture can treat depression and anxiety depends on the specific condition and other individual factors. If symptoms of depression and anxiety are mild, treatment with acupuncture is usually possible. However, if the depression or anxiety is severe, acupuncture alone may not be sufficient. Individuals experiencing discomfort should promptly seek medical attention at a hospital and receive standardized treatment under the guidance of a physician. Detailed analysis is as follows:

For patients with mild depressive and anxiety symptoms, acupuncture may help regulate the body's qi and blood by stimulating specific acupoints, thereby activating the nervous system, improving emotional state, and alleviating feelings of depression and anxiety. Commonly used acupoints may include Shenmen (HT7), Daling (PC7), Neiguan (PC6), Qimen (LR14), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3).

For patients with severe depression or anxiety, especially those exhibiting suicidal tendencies or severe physical symptoms, acupuncture alone may not achieve therapeutic effectiveness. These patients require evaluation by a qualified psychiatrist and may need more comprehensive treatments such as medication and cognitive behavioral therapy.

In daily life, it is important to maintain regular作息 (sleep-wake cycles), actively participate in social activities, manage emotions appropriately, and avoid excessive accumulation of stress.