Acupuncture has a wide range of uses, from pain control to boosting the immune system, but it can help with addictions such as quitting smoking or difficulty controlling appetite. While balancing energy through acupuncture can be helpful, and there’s even a point on the body (known as the addiction point), we have found that one will most likely be successful if they consider the following as well:

1). LIFESTYLE CHANGE. As we know, diets don’t work. Unless a person is willing to change their eating habits, not just for a couple weeks but long-term, they will not see results. In the same way, one must be willing to change the way they’ve been doing things. The mindset must be, “I really want to stop smoking, get better, etc. so I am willing to make some sacrifices.”

2). ENVIRONMENT. The addictive pattern of behavior must change. If you are used to having a cigarette on your break with your co-workers, don’t go on break with them. If you light up on the drive home, have something else to do with your hand or mouth during that time. THINK ABOUT WHAT YOU ARE DOING! So much of our daily activities become habitual that we are not even mindful of them. Old, long-term habits are difficult to break, but we can consciously overcome them.

3). SUPPORT FROM OTHERS. We can’t usually do it alone. The most successful patients have at least one friend or relative who keeps them accountable and doesn’t criticize them for attempting to change. Encouraging words and help, such as not bringing cigarettes or tempting foods into the house, can go a long way in enabling somebody to “kick the habit.”