DEPRESSION

In Western medicine, depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities. It can result from a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors, and may be treated using psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both.

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In Chinese medicine, depression is viewed as the symptom of an imbalance in the body's energy, or "Qi," which can disrupt the harmonious flow of energy through the meridians.

Different types of depression are associated with imbalances in specific elements, such as wood, water, fire, earth, and metal. Each element corresponds to particular organs and emotional states.

1. Wood depression: Linked to the liver and gallbladder, wood depression often involves feelings of anger, irritability, and frustration.

2. Water depression: Associated with the kidneys and bladder, water depression is characterized by fear, anxiety, and a lack of motivation or willpower.

3. Fire depression: Connected to the heart and small intestine, fire depression manifests as restlessness, insomnia, and emotional instability.

4. Earth depression: Related to the spleen and stomach, earth depression involves worry, overthinking, and digestive issues.

5. Metal depression: Associated with the lungs and large intestine, metal depression is characterized by grief, sadness, and respiratory issues.
    

Chinese medicine approaches depression by reinforcing the imbalance and treating the root cause, rather than just addressing the symptoms.

Treatment methods include:​ Acupuncture, Herbal remedies, Tui Na, Qi Gong and Tai Chi, Dietary therapy.