The conversation around mental health has become much more prominent in recent years thanks in part to the pandemic. Depression, loneliness, anxiety have all increased for many people especially in the last couple of years.

Sometimes a prescription medication is needed to deal with a particular mental health issue but often, people are looking for a drug free alternative to address their issue. Acupuncture is a great option for those struggling with mental or emotional issues. 

Just for depression alone, some users of antidepressant prescription medications can experience some heavy side effects. And there are those who despite the prescription are not helped by the medication themselves. Acupuncture offers a holistic option to deal with depression and the underlying causes.

Depression and Anxiety can manifest in both physical and emotional symptoms. This is often an indication of an imbalance of Qi (pronounced “Chi”) in the body. Qi is defined as the body’s energy pathways flowing through channels in the body called meridians. When Qi is balanced and flowing through the meridian network, our bodies operate optimally. When Qi isn’t balanced, depression, anxiety, loss of appetite, high blood pressure, and even digestive issues can be present.

Before beginning your Acupuncture treatment, I will take a detailed history and examination. Acupuncture points for treating emotional and physical effects of mental health disorders are located all over the body. I  will choose the Acupuncture points based on your history and their report of findings.

Researchers have been studying the effectiveness of Acupuncture and how it can help people who suffer from Depression and the findings are positive. A study conducted at the University of Arizona examined responses of 34 depressed women who used Acupuncture, generalized Acupuncture not utilizing specific points, or no treatment at all. The study found that of the women who received Acupuncture specifically for depression, 43% experienced a reduction in their symptoms compared with 22% for those receiving general Acupuncture and 14% who received no treatment at all. After eight weeks, more than half of the women who received specific Acupuncture were considered no longer depressed.

These are encouraging studies with great results so if you suffer from feelings of Anxiety or Depression, talk me to develop the appropriate treatment plan based on your specific needs. Studies have shown that the right “dose” of Acupuncture was the key in helping patients see results and a reduction of the symptoms of stress and depression. “Dose” is defined as both the number of treatment sessions overall, as well as the number of Acupuncture points addressed in each session.

I can also recommend Herbal Formulas and Nutrition/ Dietary changes to help bring your Qi back into balance. Talk to me today. As we have all seen over the last couple of years, we need to be as vigilant in maintaining our mental health as we are with our physical health. Call me today and experience the healing benefits of Acupuncture!

Dr. Mindy Boxer is a holistic practitioner who has grown into her specialties in an organic way. Understanding a range of disciplines allows her to integrate the wisdom of Ancient healing in combination with the most recent innovations in Scientific research. This dynamic blend has enabled Dr. Boxer to help patients in the prevention and treatment of disease for over 25 years.

At age 15, Dr. Boxer began her lifelong practice of Yoga & Meditation, read many Nutrition books, began Juicing her Vegetables, and explored and all Raw Diet.  Recognizing the importance of Nutrition in overall health, she earned her Ph.D. in 1986 in Nutrition and Human Behavior, providing her with a solid foundation to counsel and educate patients on how to attain health and vitality.

Her informative Lectures and appetizing Cooking Classes were the perfect forum to educate the community about the effects of food on Mood and Behavior, as well as in innovative ways to balance Body Chemistry in order to achieve overall well being.

Sensing a need to expand her training and understanding of the human body as a whole system, Dr. Boxer continued her studies in Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine,  and in 1993 earned a Masters Degree in Traditional Oriental Medicine. She is licensed by the Medical Board of the State of California in Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine and is also licensed by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine.

These diverse disciplines give Dr. Boxer a unique view of the human body and how to keep it functioning in an optimal manner. Her practice of Acupuncture, Chinese Herbs and Functional Nutrition have a profound effect on Hormonal balance, Rejuvenation, and Immune system enhancement.

Dr. Boxer has a particularly keen understanding of Women’s Health issues including Gynecological irregularity, PMS, Fertility, IUI & UVF support, Healthy Pregnancy & Delivery, and Menopausal issues. Her interest in the human body as a dynamic system has given her the understanding to deal with such problems as improper Digestion and elimination, Cancer Support, Allergies, back pain, tight neck and shoulders, carpal tunnel syndrome, respiratory distress, chronic fatigue, Insomnia, Stress, Anxiety and Depression.

She has also studied the art and science of Homeopathy, earning her Diplomate in Homeopathy from the Hahnemann College of Homeopathy in 1995. This allows her to treat the whole person — physically, mentally, emotionally.