Acupuncture And Anxiety

Acupuncture is commonly sought for anxiety and is quite successful in helping patients suffering from the various symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder. While we do not diagnose anxiety at Jackupuncture, we do use the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM-A) and GAD-7 to track progress for patients who may be suffering from anxiety. HAM-A and GAD-7 are self-reported questionnaires that rate a patient’s anxiety symptoms. Our PeakMIND patients regularly show significant improvements on both, HAM-A and GAD-7.

Sleep plays an important role in good mental health, and can be an additional hurdle for those experiencing anxiety. That’s why it’s always great to hear so many PeakMIND patients report improvements in sleep. By helping improve patients’ quantity and quality of sleep, PeakMIND increases the opportunity for the various processes necessary for brain and body restoration to take place, helping put better mental health in reach for people experiencing anxiety. As sleep plays such a vital part in mental and physical health, we also try to support all patients with guidance on sleep hygiene and lifestyle changes, as well as professional referrals whenever necessary. The improvements in sleep PeakMIND patients regularly report can benefit everyone experiencing physical and mental health issues.

It’s common for individuals to experience occasional anxiety as a normal part of life. Concerns about health, finances, or family matters can trigger worry or fear in many people. However, anxiety disorders go beyond temporary worry or fear, as the anxiety persists and may worsen over time. Some patients may experience anxiety after head trauma like concussions, mild TBI or other forms of physical trauma like whiplash. That’s why it is part of the assessment involved in our Brain and Concussion Care Consult.

The symptoms associated with anxiety disorders can significantly interfere with daily activities, such as work performance, schoolwork, and relationships.

There are various types of anxiety disorders: from generalized anxiety disorder, to social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and even phobia-related disorders. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) typically involves persistent feelings of anxiety or dread that can disrupt daily life. It is distinct from occasional worry or anxiety triggered by stressful life events. Individuals with GAD may experience frequent anxiety for extended periods, ranging from months to years.

Symptoms of Anxiety (i.e. GAD)

• Restlessness, feeling wound-up, or being on-edge
• Easily becoming fatigued
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability
• Headaches, muscle aches, stomachaches, or unexplained pains
• Difficulty controlling worries
• Sleep problems, such as difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep