Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to treat various physical and mental health issues. It is commonly offered at mental health treatment facilities as a supplemental therapy for people who wish to utilize holistic, non-invasive approaches to manage symptoms of mental health conditions. However, as there is much speculation about acupuncture, the therapy has many disbelievers due to all the myths surrounding this treatment method. Addressing some of these myths can help people looking for alternative forms of symptom relief for mental health issues better understand if this treatment may be right for them.

Some of the myths about acupuncture include the following:

It Doesn’t Work

Some people may assume that acupuncture is something that doesn’t work as it’s a holistic approach to therapy that doesn’t use western approaches to medicine. However, there are many medical studies and evidence that suggest otherwise. For example, research conducted by the National Institutes of Health states that acupuncture is effective as it stimulates the brain which allows for better nervous system functioning along with other effects that can reduce symptoms of mental and physical health issues. With thousands of years of use, it’s no wonder why acupuncture is still something that is used today – because it works.

Acupuncture Specialists Aren’t Given Proper Training

There’s a myth surrounding acupuncture that specialists who offer this treatment aren’t required to have any training or education. But, that’s not true at all. In fact, acupuncture specialists in the United States, before being able to offer this treatment, are required to have attended graduate school training for at least three years. This training includes both education about western medicine as well as clinical practice applying acupuncture and other holistic approaches to treating mental and physical ailments. Furthermore, after graduation, acupuncture specialists much then take their final exams to receive their license given to them by the national board.

Acupuncture Hurts

One of the biggest and more fear-driving myths about acupuncture is that it hurts. Acupuncture uses needles that are applied directly to the skin in order to stimulate results. When thinking about this, it can be easy to assume that acupuncture hurts. However, acupuncture needles are very small and are only inserted into the very top layers of the skin. Therefore, it’s not painful at all. Furthermore, acupuncture has a calming effect. So, rather than being painful, many people find sessions quite relaxing. In any case, there is nothing to fear when it comes to acupuncture pain.

Using Acupuncture for Mental Health at Delray Integrative Medicine

Acupuncture isn’t just for addressing physical pain. One of the many myths that surround acupuncture is that it’s just for chronic pain. However, acupuncture can be used for more than just injury and physical ailments – it can be used to help reduce symptoms of mental health issues as well. As acupuncture allows for better relaxation and stress management, it can be a great tool for people who are in treatment for a variety of mental health issues including depressive disorders, PTSD, anxiety disorders, and more.

Delray Integrative Medicine offers acupuncture sessions for people in our care at our South Florida location. Find out more about acupuncture for mental health on our website today.