Suffering in silence: how needles can help

New research out today suggests that women are suffering with anxiety in silence, as over two thirds of the estimated three million UK sufferers fail to seek treatment. The study carried out by the British Acupuncture Council and Anxiety UK, to mark World Mental Health Day two weeks ago, questioned whether sufferers are currently aware of all the alternative options available to them.

43% of the women interviewed said talking to friends and family about their issues helps them cope with their anxiety, whilst physical exercise also plays a part in managing their struggle. The women surveyed used the words "trapped, lonely and tense" when describing how their anxiety makes them feel. And I'm sure most of us can relate to feeling those at some point throughout our lives.

For many women, anxiety is an ongoing issue. The study also showed how two thirds of sufferers have endured the condition for over five years. They admit they just ‘try and get on with things’ rather than seek help for the issue, even though sufferers stated it affects their career and relationships.

We spoke to Anxiety UK about this. "We believe this could be down to a lack of understanding, affordability as well as access issues when it comes to the options available, especially complementary therapies such as acupuncture," a spokesperson said. Considering most of us don't feel acupuncture can help anxiety, it seems there's a lot to learn.

Acupuncture practitioners described how the most common form of anxiety they treat is depression closely followed by panic attacks, with Seasonal Affective Disorder - those who feel depressed and low in winter months - not far behind.

Nick Pahl, CEO, the British Acupuncture Council the UK’s leading governing body for the practice of acupuncture, says: "As traditional acupuncture can be enormously beneficial for anxiety, we felt it was important to better inform those suffering with the condition about how acupuncture can help so they can make an educated decision regarding their treatment."

So have you felt low recently, or are you struggling with depression? It's amazing to think a qualified acupuncturist can hold the key to helping you feel calmer, freer and more 'normal'. To find a practitioner in your area call the British Acupuncture Council on 020 8735 0400 or visit www.acupuncture.org.uk. Or visit your GP for more infomation.