Acupuncture, which relies on a holistic approach to healing, consists of inserting fine needles along various points in the body, with the aim of stimulating the body's flow of life energy, known as Qi. Acupuncture and other alternative healing modalities are widely available, for those living here in Asheville. If you suffer from depression and wish to try acupuncture, Asheville, NC, or wherever you live, likely has practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) who can work with you. TCM doesn't recognize depression as a particular illness, but it is designed to treat specific symptoms using acupuncture, Chinese herbs, energetic exercises, etc., to restore imbalances in the body.? Though acupuncture has traditionally been taught as a preventive modality of healing, it has likewise been proven effective in the handling of chronic conditions, such as depression and anxiety.? Depression is a mood disorder characterized by symptoms (both psychological and physical) that can be damaging to normal operation. Whether you have experienced it for yourself, you know a friend or relative who has handled it, or you have heard about it on TV (usually tied to some 'miracle' pill), you probably know what depression means. People who're depressed often suffer from anxiety, worry, crying spells, fatigue, an inability to concentrate, a lack of concern in social activities and hobbies, etc. In extreme cases, depression leaves individuals feeling hopeless, often considering harming themselves or others, or even committing suicide.