Anxiety and panic attacks
Anxiety is a normal emotional response to stress. Chronic or persistent anxiety on the other hand is not normal and relates to dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis.
.........It can become a consuming and overwhelming issue that depletes our energy.
Anxiety can manifest as chronic persistent worry, over- thinking, a feeling of apprehension & dread, panic attacks and phobias. Physical symptoms can include chest tightness, palpitations, dizziness, sweating, cold extremities, pallor, digestive complaints, weakness and fatigue.
Anxiety causes tension in the body that stops the free flow of energy(qi) and blood. Acupuncture promotes the flow of energy(qi) and blood restoring its proper flow, easing tension and pain in the body and calming the mind. A herbal formula is prescribed to calm the central nervous system, including herbs that have a natural hypnotic, sedative and analgesic effect.
Addressing the symptom is only one part of recovery however. Identifying and treating the underlying cause of anxiety is essential. This can range from blood depletion(eg heavy periods, vegetarian diet) to heat in the body(eg menopause, post-viral) or even a history of shock or trauma(post traumatic stress disorder).
Acupuncture is also very helpful in weaning off prescription anti-anxiety medication which often results in the resurfacing of anxiety. Treatment time depends on the severity and chronicity of the anxiety.
Acupuncture is generally performed once weekly however in severe cases it can be performed up to once daily. Avoidance of stimulants such as caffeine is advised during the recovery period. Qi Gong meditation is very helpful to still the mind and manage anxiety on a day to day basis(www.openskyqigong.com).
To book in your initial emotional health consultation with Dr Rachel Berners(CM) at her Eltham or City practice, call Rachel on 0417325393.