Publications

Whiting, M., Leavey, G., Scammell, A., Au, S., King, M. (2007)
‍Using acupuncture to treat depression: A feasibility study
Journal of Complementary Therapies in Medicine

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Objectives were to test the feasibility of a randomised controlled trial of acupuncture for mild–moderate depression, focusing on choice of control, blinding, outcome measures and participant acceptability to inform a phase‑III design.

Nineteen patients recruited via London general practices were randomised 2:1 to twelve sessions of verum or sham acupuncture (needling at non‑depression sites).

Primary outcomes were the Beck Depression Inventory and the RAND‑36, measured at baseline and end‑of‑treatment (or dropout); all participants also completed a brief qualitative interview. Dropout was low and participant enthusiasm high, though GP referrals were fewer than expected. The sham procedure successfully preserved blinding and allowed isolation of acupuncture’s specific effects; the outcome measures detected changes in mood and quality of life. These findings give practical design and methodological guidance for a definitive randomised trial.

Hagelskamp, C., Scammell, A., Au, S., Leavey, G. (2003)
‍Acupuncture as treatment for depression in primary care: Current position and future hopes
Primary Care & Mental Health

The paper presents an overview of the existing evidence for using acupuncture to treat depression and anxiety.

The authors found "some evidence" that acupuncture is effective for these conditions. They noted that while trial results were consistently favourable, variability in the type of acupuncture used and weaknesses in the methodology of the trials made it difficult to draw further conclusions at the time.

Au, S. & Hiew, S. (2002)
‍Integrating Western medicine& Traditional Chinese medicine in GP surgeries & the community
(Published in The Journal of the Royal Society for the Promotion of Health)

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The popularity of complementary medicine has been relentless over the past decade. Among the most popular are Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which has a long and unbroken history.

This article reports on two integrated healthcare pilot schemes where TCM and Western medicine are merged, to varying degrees, for the benefits of patients. One of the schemes focuses on general medicine whilst the other focuses on mental health.

The authors conclude that the integrated schemes have many advantages and, on the whole, are beneficial for patients. The issues involved and learning points are discussed.

Au, S. & Li, Y. (2001)
‍Traditional Chinese Medicineand Mental Health
A booklet published by MIND – National Association for Mental Health

This publication explores the holistic approach of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for mental wellbeing, where the mind and body are seen as interconnected and influenced by factors like imbalances in Qi and the principles of Yin and Yang. TCM offers various therapeutic strategies, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, and mind-body practices like tai chi and qi gong, which have shown potential benefits for conditions such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders. 

Key concepts in TCM for mental health

• Holistic approach
  ‍TCM views the mind, body, and spirit as a unified system, where emotions can affect physical health and vice versa. 

• Qi, Yin and Yang
  ‍These core concepts describe the vital life force (Qi) and the fundamental opposing yet complementary forces (Yin and Yang) within the body and nature, whose balance is crucial for hea

• Syndrome differentiation
  ‍Diagnosis in TCM involves identifying specific patterns of disharmony (syndromes) within the body, which informs the choice of treatment. 

TCM therapies for mental health

• Herbal medicine
  ‍Specific Chinese herbal formulas, like xiaoyao powder, are used to treat various mental disorders. 

• Acupuncture
  ‍A technique that involves stimulating specific points on the body to regulate the flow of energy and promote healing. 

• Tai chi and qi gong
  ‍These mind-body practices involve slow, gentle movements and deep breathing to promote wellbeing and balance. 

• Five-element music therapy
  ‍A method that uses music to address emotional imbalances associated with the five elements in TCM. 

Evidence and integration

• Clinical evidence
  ‍Research suggests TCM interventions, including herbal medicine and mind-body practices, can help manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other conditions, sometimes offering benefits comparable to conventional treatments. 

• Challenges
  ‍Despite promising results, more rigorous clinical studies are needed to fully understand the mechanisms and efficacy of TCM for various conditions.

• Integration
  ‍TCM is increasingly recognised as a valuable complementary approach, potentially working alongside Western medicine to offer a more comprehensive strategy for mental healthcare.