PTSD Awareness Month: How Acupuncture Supports Veterans in Naples - I Am Designed to Heal
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PTSD Awareness Month: How Acupuncture Supports Veterans in Naples

13 May PTSD Awareness Month: How Acupuncture Supports Veterans in Naples

Posted at 11:11h in Our Treatments, Veterans, Wellness by
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May is PTSD Awareness Month, and for veterans in Naples, it’s a time to highlight the many ways healing is possible. While talk therapy and medications remain standard treatments, more veterans are discovering the benefits of acupuncture as part of a comprehensive approach.

Understanding PTSD in Veterans

PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) occurs after exposure to traumatic events and is common among veterans. Symptoms include:

  • Nightmares and flashbacks

  • Hypervigilance and irritability

  • Anxiety and depression

  • Insomnia and fatigue

How Acupuncture Helps Veterans with PTSD

Acupuncture calms both the body and mind by:

  • Balancing cortisol and adrenaline, reducing hyperarousal

  • Improving sleep quality by regulating melatonin

  • Easing anxiety and depression, improving mood

  • Reducing physical pain, often linked with PTSD

A randomized controlled trial found veterans who received acupuncture for PTSD experienced significant symptom reduction compared to control groups .

VA Recognition of Acupuncture

The VA now includes acupuncture in its Whole Health model. Veterans in Naples can request referrals through Community Care to receive treatment from VA-recognized practitioners like Dr. Alik.

Naples Veterans’ Stories

One local veteran described acupuncture as “the first time I felt calm in years,” noting better sleep and fewer nightmares. Another shared that treatment helped reduce reliance on anxiety medications.

FAQs for Veterans During PTSD Awareness Month

Is acupuncture a replacement for therapy?
No. It works best alongside counseling and other treatments.

Will the VA cover my acupuncture?
Yes, with a referral under Community Care.

How often should I schedule sessions?
Weekly sessions are recommended initially, with gradual spacing as symptoms improve.

Call to Action

This PTSD Awareness Month, take a step toward healing. Ask your VA provider for a referral to Dr. Alik in Naples — a VA-recognized acupuncturist committed to veterans’ health.

References:

  • Hollifield M, et al. “Acupuncture for posttraumatic stress disorder: a randomized controlled pilot trial.” J Nerv Ment Dis. 2007.

  • Engel CC, et al. “Randomized effectiveness trial of a brief course of acupuncture for PTSD symptoms.” Med Care. 2014.

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