I got acupuncture for my depression, now i feel nothing, is this normal?

Question

I'm usually pretty friendly and get along with most people, but ever since I got acupunture for my depression, which had gotten really bad recently, I dont feel any bad emotions anymre and I thank god for that, but now i also dont feel any good ones either. Is this normal? I'm kinda liking this not feeling my emotions bit, but i miss being social and understanding people on a deeper level than i do now. any advice?

Answer 1

What you have described about feeling nothing is fairly common among people who are taking antidepressants (and also mood stabilizers for bipolar). If this reaction can happen with psychiatrics meds, it can probably happen with acupuncture or other forms of alternative health. As the remedy takes away negative feelings, it can sometimes take away positive feelings as well. My theory is that all feelings are connected, so if you can't experience or express anger, for example, you can't really express joy or related feelings.

I wonder how long you have had this experience of "feeling nothing." Has it been 3 weeks or 3 months (or more)? Perhaps on a TEMPORARY basis, it is a decent tradeoff for not feeling really depressed. However, obviously you would not want to "feel nothing" for years and years. I suggest you see a counselor or psychotherapist about what you are going through. It is always a good idea to have someone to talk to about your problems. Plus a therapist can often offer good advice or possible solutions.

You probaby know there are lots of remedies in alternative health, in addition to acupuncture. I have found exercise and some form or relaxation or meditation to be very helpful for me. Also, there are nutritional aids, massage therapy, homeopathy, etc. What works for one person may not work for another, so you may have to look around for what works best for you. Be careful of people who claim to have all the answers.

In nutrition, fairly mild depression can be helped by St. John's wort. Also, you can try omega 3 oils. If you eat fish, try the real fish as opposed to capsules. Salmon, herring, sardines and a few other fish are especially high in omega 3. Vegetarians can take flax seed oil for omega 3. Also, there is some evidence that tryptophan or 5-HTP can help. People with underactive thyroid glands are prone to depression. So you should get that checked out.

It sounds like you are on the right track. You might just need to talk to a therapist and try some of the tips above. Be well.....................