Young Adults in Crisis: Healing with Acupuncture and Council
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In the realm of mental health, a crisis looms large among young adults, a crisis defined by the staggering prevalence of anxiety and depression. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, a herald of public health, has sounded the alarm on the epidemic of loneliness and underscored the paramount importance of cultivating social connections and nurturing communities to fortify overall well-being. In response to this pressing crisis, Diana Fried, the founder of Acupuncturists Without Borders, has undertaken the creation of a pioneering pilot program.
This initiative has garnered commitments from institutions, including Yo San University, Phoenix Institute of Herbal Medicine and Acupuncture, Circle Ways (a Council organization), and Acupuncturists Without Borders. It harbors hopes of welcoming numerous more schools and organizations into its fold. At its inception, however, financial backing is scarce, prompting an exploration of fundraising avenues. The program's primary objective is to extend a compassionate hand to young adults navigating the tumultuous waters of emotional crises through a combination of group acupuncture and facilitated dialogue.
At its heart, the program marries the ancient wisdom of Asian medicine with a collaborative group approach. It carves out a haven for young adults, a place that is supportive, free of judgment, and conducive to the exploration of their emotional tribulations while equipping them with newfound coping strategies.
The program's cornerstone is group acupuncture, followed by the unique Council dialogue process. Council promotes mindful listening, authentic expression, and compassionate communication. This fusion of acupuncture and Council delivers an extraordinary therapeutic experience that addresses the collective nature of the challenges faced by young people. It underscores the dire need for both healing and relational practices to facilitate this transformative process.
The transformative power of group acupuncture cannot be understated. It serves as a somatic intervention, guiding the body and nervous system into a state of balance. This intervention delves deep, gently regulating the autonomic nervous system, promoting relaxation and enhancing overall well-being. Additionally, it triggers the release of neurotransmitters that hold the promise of improved mood and reduced stress.
On the other hand, Council emerges as the bridge to understanding, respectful communication, and a profound sense of belonging. It empowers participants to transcend divides, forge connections, and navigate the intricacies of the interconnected human experience.
The program's implementation spans community-based group acupuncture treatments and skillfully facilitated Council dialogues. Complementing these practices are additional protocols, including mindfulness-based exercises, stress and trauma teachings, and acupressure techniques.
In a move to ensure the program's longevity and expansion, a comprehensive three-day training program is in the works. This training will empower individuals interested in establishing "pods" dedicated to executing the program's work. These pods comprise council facilitators, acupuncturists, and other trained individuals. The program's versatility allows it to be conducted at various venues, with its ultimate goal being the establishment of ongoing groups that positively impact participants' lives and communities at large.
In summation, "Young Adults in Crisis" presents a vital lifeline for those grappling with emotional upheaval. By blending group acupuncture with Council dialogue, the program offers a unique and cost-effective approach that holds the promise of profound breakthroughs. The unwavering commitment of Yo San University, Phoenix Institute of Herbal Medicine and Acupuncture, Acupuncturists Without Borders, and Circle Ways to nurture this initiative underscores the program's credibility and expertise in the realms of trauma healing and community-based care. Together, they aspire to empower young adults and create a national model that champions the emotional well-being of our communities. Please contact Diana Fried for more information at diana@acuwithoutborders.org
About the Author
Diana Fried is a dedicated practitioner of emotional and trauma healing. In 2005, she co-founded Acupuncturists Without Borders (AWB) to provide community acupuncture healing in disaster-stricken and underserved areas. Her work has taken her to locations such as the U.S., Haiti, Nepal, Mongolia, Ecuador, and Mexico.
Diana is trained in Five Element acupuncture, and brings that to groups worldwide as a powerful modality to heal relationships. She is trained in Council practice through the Upaya Zen Center and the Center for Council. She sees this group process as a powerful complement to acupuncture, facilitating energetic transformation for both individuals and the group as a whole. She is also a graduate of the Upaya Zen Center Buddhist Chaplaincy program and has studied various forms of Buddhist practice since the 1980s. Diana Fried is a highly experienced practitioner of emotional and trauma healing and leads groups, workshops and adventure travel for businesses and individuals through Your Life Medicine.
