The Connection Between Addictions and Anxiety and Depression

Addiction is a state of physical and/or psychological dependence on various substances, activities, or behaviors. For example, behaviors such as eating, drugs, sex, gambling, shopping, or work, and substances such as drugs and alcohol. Although the definition of addiction is clear to everyone and appears in the DSM (the psychiatric diagnostic manual considered the “bible” of anyone who works in the field of mental health), to this day it remains unclear why certain people tend to become addicted and why others do not.

Some studies place the blame on genetic factors, while others point to personality factors. For example, it is reasonable to assume that people who struggle to cope with emotions, who suffer from emotional distress and complex life events, will develop depression and various forms of anxiety – which will lead them to try to find a solution in addictive substances/behaviors. Here it’s important to clarify the difference between a habit and an addiction:

• Habit – an activity that can be stopped at any stage because it does not create physical and/or psychological dependence
• Addiction – an activity that causes chemical dependence

To prevent addiction, it’s best to treat the underlying problem as early as possible, preferably using natural means as much as possible in order to avoid side effects. For example, acupuncture for depression has been shown to contribute to calm and balance thanks to one fact – it releases endorphins that improve mood and ease coping with anxiety, sadness, mood swings, and more.

What can be done to overcome addiction?

If you have already become addicted to certain substances, you should quit them as quickly as possible. Here too, Chinese medicine in general, and acupuncture in particular, can help. For example, withdrawal from drugs or alcohol through acupuncture has become a common practice in recent years. Acupuncture not only reduces the side effects resulting from withdrawal, but also speeds up the elimination of toxins from the body.

Unlike other therapeutic withdrawal techniques (physical detox, psychological help, family therapy, etc.), acupuncture works from the assumption that body and mind are one, and therefore it treats not only the symptoms of withdrawal, but also the root of the problem that led the person to addiction in the first place, and above all – instills habits for a healthy, addiction-free life through effective, professional tools. This means that while acupuncture does address the physical problems of addiction, it also strengthens and supports the patient’s life energy.

Alcohol withdrawal according to Chinese medicine

In many cases, treating addiction according to Chinese medicine includes many elements beyond acupuncture, all tailored individually to the person and their specific addiction. For example, treatment for alcohol addiction can include herbal medicine, eating fruit, taking remedies prescribed by the practitioner, and various dietary supplements. Here are a few examples:

Since alcohol damages the liver, it’s recommended to use herbs (such as aloe vera) that can strengthen the liver and improve its function – which prevents or delays the development of secondary conditions resulting from the addiction, such as liver cirrhosis. Another herb recommended for use is Gotu Kola – a plant that helps a person overcome the side effects of alcohol withdrawal.

In addition, fruit juices (mainly citrus juice and apple juice with added banana concentrate) can reduce a person’s craving for alcohol. It’s also recommended to eat dates and grapes, which can ease withdrawal symptoms. In addition, alcohol addiction can cause nutritional deficiencies such as vitamins (mainly vitamin B and vitamin C), fatty acids, and minerals such as calcium, chromium, magnesium, and zinc. Therefore, it’s recommended to include foods/supplements containing these elements in your regular diet.