[Kiddiss]

Thanks, Faux-Faux :3 *noms on Faux's head*

Saiyouri, have you gone to an acupuncturist? I've recently read just a smidge about people with severe depression using Chinese medicine instead of drugs... and that wouldn't go against your Buddhist vows, right?

I've thought about acupuncture for my myriad aliments, but I can't bring myself to do it. I have a debilitating phobia of needles, to the point where I don't even get my blood work done more than once a year even thought I'm on several drugs which could be damaging my liver and/or kidneys. I do submit to ONE blood test a year- but only because my doc won't complete my disability paperwork if I don't. :/
Plus, diabetes runs on both sides of my family- both of my Mom's parents have/had it (my maternal grandfather died at age 48 from complications of diabetes, and I'm now in my 40's). So, Mom and I both promised we would get our blood sugars thoroughly checked yearly ever since I was in college. I've only had one test come back high, and it was because (like an idiot) I had waffles with syrup before my blood test *face palm*

Anyways... back to the point... Western medical providers are starting to see how Traditional Chinese Medicine actually DOES line up with Western Medicine.
My Dad-in-law has Failed Surgery Syndrome from having most of his neck vertebrae fused in 2010. His health care provider (Workers Comp) is paying for him to go to an acupuncturist. I thought that was some really forward thinking on his case *nod*
My husband-creature is a trained Massage Therapist, and much of his schooling integrated Chinese Medicine into massage techniques and client care.

Ya know, massage therapy might help you, as well. Back when I was on private insurance, I was going every other week for medical massage in my rheumatologist's office. It helped not only with pain an mobility, but also with mood (I've been diagnosed with Clinical (Major) Depression since I was 19 and have been on meds ever since. My mood swings calmed down quite noticeably whilst I was in massage therapy. I'd suggest at least checking it out :3