Teenagers, Mental Health and Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an increasingly popular form of treatment for mental health issues in teenagers. It has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, improving concentration and promoting deeper sleep. Acupuncture helps to regulate the hormones that control emotions, which in turn can allow teens to more effectively manage their mental health.
The National Institute of Health (NIH) has conducted numerous studies into the efficacy of acupuncture as a treatment option for teenage mental health conditions. The NIH found that acupuncture was able to improve symptoms related to anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, insomnia and attention deficit disorder in teens. It also observed improved social functioning in teens who underwent regular acupuncture treatments.
In the modern world the challenges of the teenage years are more intense. Increased electronic stimulation and associated lack of rest, excessive social and academic expectations and other lifestyle issues such as, lack of sleep and the poor quality of food all make it harder for teenagers to thrive. We have a particular passion for treating teenagers at the Blossom Tree Clinic because we believe that treatment early in life sets the scene for good health later on, stopping small imbalances leading to chronic problems in adult life.
At the Blossom Tree Clinic we offer a safe and effective way to help teenagers find relief from mental health issues without the use of medication. An initial consultation will be needed for us to develop an individualised treatment plan for your teen based on their particular symptoms and needs. When treating teenagers we tend to use different approaches than those used with adults. The needles are usually smaller and thinner (no more than a hair thickness) and typically remain in place for 20-30mins. Teenagers don’t need to do anything they are not comfortable with so if needles feel too scary we can use other modalities such as Chinese massage, Moxa or laser pen, however we mostly find that teenagers really enjoy acupuncture once they get used to it and find it deeply relaxing.
Please note that this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you or your teen are suffering from any mental health issues, please seek professional help.
To book an appointment for your teenager please book them into the Children’s Clinic on our booking page
References:
National Institute of Health. (2014, May 8). Acupuncture for Mental Health Issues in Teens – The Benefits and Risks.
https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/acupuncture-mentalhealth-issues-teens
The Blossom Tree Clinic is an Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Clinic in Totnes Dartington. If you would like to book in with one of our practitioners please head to our BOOKING PAGE
Acupuncture in Totnes - Acupuncture Mental Health - Acupuncture Children- Acupuncture Teenagers - Acupuncture Anxiety- Acupuncture Depression