Relief from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder with Acupuncture


By Lauren Breau, L.Ac


including childhood. Those who suffer from PTSD are often war veterans and survivors of physical and sexual as- sault, abuse, accidents, or disasters; however, it should be recognized that not everyone with PTSD has been through a dangerous event. In fact, some people experience PTSD after a friend or family member experiences danger, or are harmed. This includes the sudden, unexpected death of a loved one. The diagnosis of PTSD may be given when a group of symptoms, such as hyper-arousal, intense anxiety, avoidant behavior, intrusive memories, nightmares, and attempts to “numb” memories of the event continue for more than a


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ccording to the National Institute of Mental Health, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) affects 7.7 million American adults, but can occur at any age,


month after the occurrence of traumatic event. For a more detailed explanation of the symptoms of PTSD, please refer to the National Institute of Mental Health.


PTSD and Addiction


Daily, in the community clinic, I see people who are functioning in crisis mode. Though their conflicts are not usually the result of a natural disaster, or war, many are the victims of poverty, childhood abuse, domestic vio- lence, sexual assault, and traumatic physical injury. It’s not unusual for those struggling with PTSD to use drugs or alcohol in attempt to anesthetize the physical/emotional/ spiritual pain they are feeling. Over time, if this cycle is not interrupted with healthier coping mechanisms, chronic


14 Essential Living Maine ~ October 2014


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