Depression: Healing Suppressed Emotions

Hello, I am Choi Yeon-seung, the head physician at Baeknokdam Korean Medicine Clinic. Today, we will delve into depression, a mental illness that significantly diminishes the quality of life for many. We will explore the causes of depression from a Korean medicine perspective and introduce Korean medicine treatments that heal the ailments of the mind.

Table of Contents

1. Depression, the Onslaught of a Dark Shadow
2. Suppressed Emotions Obstructing the Flow of Qi
3. Herbal Medicine Treatment for Rebalancing a Disturbed Mind
4. Acupuncture and Moxibustion Therapy to Soothe a Disturbed Mind
5. Revisiting Lifestyle Habits to Regain Peace of Mind
6. From Darkness to Light with Korean Medicine

1. Depression, the Onslaught of a Dark Shadow

"Lately, I've lost all motivation and spend the entire day feeling lethargic. Even minor things bring me to tears, I can't sleep, yet I have no appetite. I feel endlessly miserable and worthless."

Depression is a formidable illness that robs individuals of everyday joy and plunges them into helplessness. Those affected lose interest and pleasure, becoming consumed by guilt and despair. It often accompanies physical symptoms like loss of appetite or insomnia, and in severe cases, can lead to suicidal thoughts, necessitating careful attention.

2. Suppressed Emotions Obstructing the Flow of Qi

In Korean medicine, depression is addressed within the category of Uljeung (鬱證). It is viewed as a condition arising when Jeongji (emotions) become repressed, leading to the stagnation of Qi (vital energy). When the Chiljeong (Seven Emotions)—namely joy, anger, worry, rumination, grief, fear, and fright—become excessively fluctuating and prolonged, it is believed to cause Qi stagnation, leading to a pathological state.

3. Herbal Medicine Treatment for Rebalancing a Disturbed Mind

The fundamental principle of herbal medicine treatment for depression involves resolving Gan-gi-ul-gyeol (Liver Qi Stagnation) and harmonizing Jeongji (emotions). The key is to release repressed emotions and facilitate the circulation of stagnant Qi, thereby restoring balance between mind and body. Prescriptions are customized and modified according to the severity of symptoms and the byeonjeung (pattern identification) type.

4. Acupuncture and Moxibustion Therapy to Soothe a Disturbed Mind

Acupuncture treatment serves as an excellent tool for improving symptoms of depression. This is because it effectively promotes the smooth flow of Gyeongrak (meridians) and harmonizes the functions of the Jangbu (internal organs).

5. Revisiting Lifestyle Habits to Regain Peace of Mind

In depression treatment, lifestyle adjustments are just as crucial as herbal medicine or acupuncture and moxibustion therapy. Rather than withdrawing due to lethargy, it is essential to uplift your mood with regular exercise and restore a healthy circadian rhythm. Aerobic exercise is known to be effective in improving depression and anxiety.

6. From Darkness to Light with Korean Medicine

"I am emerging from the tunnel of depression where thoughts of wanting to die constantly circled in my mind. Laughter is slowly returning, and I've begun to see hope for tomorrow. I am grateful for the Korean medicine treatment that helped me realize the vibrant life force within me."

They say depression is like a cold of the mind. Just as a persistent cold is difficult to shake off quickly, depression is also a stubborn illness. However, do not lose hope that it can definitely be overcome with appropriate treatment and management. Darkness cannot last forever. There will certainly be a gradually dawning light.

Are you suffering from a mental illness alone? Are you spending days trapped in the shadow of depression, finding it hard even to breathe? Don't try to hide it any longer; reach out and ask for help. Baeknokdam Korean Medicine Clinic is here for you, a reliable healer and a warm comforter.