Low Mood and Depression: Acupressure Points & Self-Care

Depression is more than a feeling of being sad or irritable for a few days. Its symptoms are ongoing and affect day-to-day life: to be diagnosed, they must occur most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks. Depression may need long-term treatment, such as talk therapy and antidepressant medicines.

Traditional use: in TCM, points such as HT-7, SP-6 and LR-3 are traditionally used for low mood.

Recognizing Symptoms

Physical Symptoms

  • Symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks

Emotional Impact

  • Sadness or irritability that does not go away

Primary Points for Low Mood and Depression

Select a point to learn more.

Additional Support Points

Select a point to learn more.

Self-Care Acupressure Routines

Mood Routine (15-20 minutes)

  1. ESSENTIAL: This routine does not replace professional mental health treatment - continue therapy and medicines as prescribed
  2. If you have thoughts of self-harm, call your local emergency number immediately (in the United States, you can also call or text 988)
  3. Practice this routine at the same time each day, for example in the morning
  4. Begin with 5 minutes of gentle movement: stretching, walking in place, or light yoga
  5. Breathe slowly: inhale for 4 counts, hold for 2, exhale for 6 counts (10 cycles)
  6. Press HT-7 lightly and steadily for 2 minutes each hand
  7. Apply pressure to SP-6 for 2 minutes each leg
  8. Press LR-3 for 1-2 minutes each foot
  9. Optional: add GV-20 with gentle pressure for 1-2 minutes
  10. Optional: include PC-6 for 1 minute each arm
  11. Optional: add ST-36 for 1-2 minutes each leg
  12. End by naming 3 things you're grateful for and 1 small goal for the day

Everyday Considerations

Treatment

  • Long-term care: Depression may need long-term treatment, such as talk therapy and antidepressant medicines

Pregnancy

  • Traditionally avoided during pregnancy: SP-6. Skip this point if you are or may be pregnant.

When to Seek Medical Care

See a health care provider

  • If low mood lasts most of the day, nearly every day, for two weeks or more