Acupuncture for Depression
Here’s How It Works
Depression is a common mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable. While there are several treatment options available for depression — including medications and psychotherapy — some people prefer to explore alternative treatments such as acupuncture.
I.
What Acupuncture Is
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medical practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, the body has channels of energy — or meridians — that flow through it. Acupuncture aims to correct imbalances in these channels and restore the body’s natural balance and flow of energy.
Studies have shown that acupuncture may be an effective treatment for depression. In fact, a review of 30 randomised controlled trials involving over 2,000 patients found that acupuncture was more effective than placebo — and equally as effective as antidepressant medications — in treating depression.
II.
The Alberta ACHIP Study
Up to a 79% Reduction in Depression Symptoms
Between 2021 and 2022, the Alberta Government funded a study called The Alberta Complementary Health Integration Project (ACHIP) to investigate the potential benefits of integrating complementary and alternative medicine with conventional healthcare practices for individuals with mental health conditions, including depression. The study was a collaborative project between the University of Calgary, the Alberta College of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (ACATCM), and Huatuo Clinic.
Headline Finding
Up to 79% reduction in depression among participants who received acupuncture treatment.
While the study has not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal, it adds to the growing body of research supporting the use of acupuncture for mental health conditions. It highlights the potential benefits of combining complementary and alternative medicine with conventional healthcare practices to provide holistic and personalised treatment — and underscores the importance of continued collaboration between researchers and clinicians.
III.
How It Works
While the exact mechanism is not yet fully understood, several theories are well-supported:
- I.
Balancing Neurotransmitters
Acupuncture may help to balance the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain — including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine — which are thought to be involved in the regulation of mood.
- II.
Reducing Inflammation
Inflammation in the body has been linked to depression, and acupuncture has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects.
- III.
Reducing Stress
Acupuncture may help reduce stress by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and reduces the body’s stress response.
- IV.
Regulating the HPA Axis
The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis plays a role in the body’s stress response, and dysregulation of this axis has been linked to depression. Acupuncture may help regulate the HPA axis and reduce depressive symptoms.
IV.
During the Session
During an acupuncture session for depression, the practitioner will insert needles into specific points on the body — based on the individual’s symptoms and underlying imbalances. The needles are left in place for about twenty to forty minutes, during which time the person may feel a touch-pressure, warmth, or tingling sensation at the site of the needle insertion.
Acupuncture is generally considered safe, with few side effects. However, it is important to seek treatment from a licensed acupuncturist who has undergone appropriate training and certification.
V.
Studies on Effectiveness
Five representative studies on acupuncture as a treatment for depression:
- I.
A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Affective Disorders reviewed 30 randomised controlled trials involving 2,812 patients with depression. Acupuncture was significantly more effective than sham acupuncture and comparable in effectiveness to antidepressant medications.
- II.
An RCT published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine compared acupuncture and fluoxetine in 120 patients. Both treatments were effective — but acupuncture had fewer side effects and a lower relapse rate.
- III.
An RCT published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research compared acupuncture and escitalopram in 240 patients. Both treatments were effective — but acupuncture had fewer side effects and was better tolerated.
- IV.
A systematic review published in the Journal of Affective Disorders reviewed 26 RCTs involving 1,937 patients. Acupuncture was more effective than sham acupuncture and comparable in effectiveness to antidepressant medications.
- V.
An RCT published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine compared acupuncture and cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) in 150 patients. Both treatments were effective — but acupuncture had a more rapid onset of action and was better tolerated.
While these studies suggest that acupuncture may be an effective treatment for depression, more research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits and limitations. Acupuncture should always be used in conjunction with other treatments — such as medication and psychotherapy — as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
In Conclusion
Acupuncture may be a viable treatment option for depression — either as a standalone therapy or in combination with other treatments. While the exact mechanism of action is not yet fully understood, it has been shown to be effective across multiple studies. If you are considering acupuncture for depression, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider and seek treatment from a licensed acupuncturist.