What the research suggests
Systematic reviews of acupuncture for anxiety, including generalised anxiety disorder and pre-operative anxiety, generally find a reduction in symptoms compared with no treatment or sham, with effects similar in size to some other supportive approaches. The studies are moderate in quality and mostly short-term, so long-term benefit is less certain. For stress that shows up in the body as tension, headaches, poor sleep and a racing mind, the case is stronger, because acupuncture's effects on pain, muscle tension and sleep are better established.
How it may work
Needling activates sensory nerves that influence the autonomic nervous system, shifting the body from a fight-or-flight state towards rest and recovery. Heart rate and muscle tone drop during treatment, and endorphin and serotonin release are thought to contribute to the calm most people feel afterwards. Regular sessions may help that state become easier to reach.
Acupuncture points for stress and anxiety
Points are chosen for each person after a consultation, but some are used often for stress and anxiety: Yintang, between the eyebrows; Shenmen (HT7), on the wrist crease; Neiguan (PC6), on the inner forearm; Hegu (LI4), between the thumb and index finger; and Taichong (LR3), on the top of the foot. Our guide to acupuncture points explains how they are located and used.
What a course looks like
Weekly sessions for four to six weeks are typical, then spacing out. Many people use acupuncture during a particularly stressful period such as exams, a bereavement or a demanding project at work, rather than indefinitely.
What it does not replace
If anxiety is affecting your daily life, talking therapies such as CBT and, where appropriate, medication have the strongest evidence and should be the foundation. Your GP or NHS Talking Therapies is the right starting point. If you are in crisis or worried about your safety, call NHS 111 or, in an emergency, 999. Acupuncture can complement these, and there is no conflict between them.
Acupuncture for anxiety and stress in London
Our registered acupuncturists in Chiswick take a full history, including any mental health care you are receiving, and treat with your consent alongside it. Sessions are 60 minutes in a quiet treatment room. Where it would help, we can also combine acupuncture with Ayurvedic approaches, tai chi and qi gong, or our clinical psychology service. A 60-minute session is £80, a 30-minute Traditional Chinese Medicine consultation is £50, and evening appointments are available. Book through our booking page or call 020 4515 0000. Omnia Lifestyle is at 8 to 9 Bedford Corner, The Avenue, Chiswick W4 1LZ, close to Turnham Green station, on bus routes 94, E3 and 272. Limited parking is available on request when booking. For more on managing anxiety, see stress and anxiety support and how to cope with anxiety.