Depression (Adjunctive Care)
Also known as: Major depressive disorder, Depressive episode, Low mood, Dysthymia, Persistent depressive disorder
Depression is a common mental health condition involving persistent low mood, loss of interest, poor sleep, fatigue and poor concentration, and it is treatable with psychological therapy, medication and lifestyle support [1][2]. First-line care in Australia is psychological treatment such as CBT, with antidepressants for moderate to severe episodes, and urgent assessment whenever suicidal thinking is present [1][3]. In Chinese medicine, low mood (Yù Zhèng 郁证, depression constraint) is classically linked to Liver Qi stagnation, Heart and Spleen deficiency, or Phlegm-Fire harassing the Heart. Acupuncture may be a useful adjunct alongside standard care, but it must never delay psychological or medical treatment, and suicide risk always takes priority [4][5].
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Lifestyle & Diet
- •Stay connected with the treating GP or mental health professional [1].
- •Regular physical activity improves mood in mild to moderate depression [2].
- •Keep a regular sleep and meal routine [2].
- •Limit alcohol and avoid recreational drugs [2].
- •Know the crisis numbers: Lifeline 13 11 14, emergency 000 [1].
Cautions & Contraindications
- •Never position acupuncture as an alternative to psychological or medical care for depression [1][3].
- •Suicidal ideation is an emergency pathway, not an acupuncture case [1].
- •Use caution with strong needle stimulation in frail or severely fatigued patients.
- •LI4 is traditionally avoided in pregnancy.
When to reassess or seek care again
Check mood, sleep and function at each visit and ask directly about suicidal thinking whenever mood worsens. No improvement within 4–6 weeks, or any deterioration, triggers GP or mental health referral [1][3].
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Sources & Further Reading
Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.
- Healthdirect Australia · 2024
- NICE · 2022
- Beyond Blue · 2024
- PubMed (systematic review and network meta-analysis) · 2026
- World Health Organization · 2023
Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.