12/11/2025
Here's what the research tells us: across 18 clinical trials involving over 2,800 people, acupuncture helped ease depressive symptoms significantly more than standard care (Chan et al., 2021).
The numbers are compelling—about 45% of people with acupuncture felt noticeably better compared to 31% in control groups. And far fewer people stopped treatment due to side effects: only ~3% with acupuncture versus ~13% with antidepressants.
How does it help? Acupuncture helps steady your stress response, supports mood-regulating brain chemistry like serotonin and dopamine, and reduces inflammatory signals in your body. Less fight-or-flight, more space to breathe.
At Pao Family Wellness, we combine evidence-based care with compassionate support for your mental health journey. Acupuncture can work alongside therapy or medication—we're here to help you explore what feels right.
Call us at +1-647-591-5012 or visit https://www.paowellness.ca to learn more.
Source: Chan et al., 2021.