I am excited to be a part of a new program to help veterans returning from Iraq and Afganistan. Two Boston-area clinics, in Arlington and Boston, will provide free community-style acupuncture treatments for veterans and their families and caregivers. Similar clinics are beginning in locations across the country. The programs are inspired by Acupuncturists Without Borders’ nationwide effort to respond to the stress and trauma experienced by veterans returning from war. I will be volunteering as an acupuncturist and doing outreach and organizing for the project.This program will be open to veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as veterans from other wars or conflicts. Some clinics may also offer treatment to close family members, who are also affected. The Arlington, MA clinic is open for clients (contact number below); the Boston clinic is expected to open in the next several months. Watch this blog for updates!
Community acupuncture is a simple but powerful approach to treating stress and trauma. Treatments are done in a group, seated and clothed, and consist of needles on the ears only. This style of treatment was used for AWB’s programs in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, and was very well-received. Participants reported that it helped with anxiety, depression and insomnia; many others found relief from physical ailments as well. The feedback from an AWB pilot program for Veterans in Albequerque has also been very positive and encouraging.
To learn more about the veterans’ program (including an up-to-date listing of clinic sites around the country), how acupuncture can help with post-traumatic stress, and AWB’s work with Hurricane Katrina survivors, visit www.acuwithoutborders.org. For information on the Arlington, MA clinic, call 617-849-4928.