What’s next? What’s now? As a caregiver to the BIPOC community and to those dealing with the present anxiety in our country, there are holistic processes available to those suffering nationwide. There have been recent improvements in holistic treatment across America. For instance, in Texas, there has been a long-standing treatment called Acudetox, which has been used for treating drug and alcohol clients, only in a treatment facility. Recently, Texas House Representative Vikki Goodwin (D) co-sponsored the nonpartisan HB 1106, which expanded the providers who can provide Acudetox treatment, and the Senate approved it; therefore, SB 919 was passed.
My daughter and I have both received Acudetox treatment from a local acupuncturist with pleasing results. The costs were reasonable, and the treatment did not involve health insurance. There are many states that offer Acudetox treatment through licensed professionals. California has a certification program through NADA, the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association, an organization that trains people in the NADA protocol to treat trauma, substance misuse, abuse, and mental health conditions. They have a great database of California providers.
Acudetox is a form of acupuncture. Its formal name is auricular acudetox, and it consists of five needle points on the outer ear. Those points are commonly referenced in holistic health, and points at the sympathetic (pain), shenmen (tension), kidney, liver, and lung points. Acudetox has been great in reducing anxiety, and it’s a new form of treatment offered in many states. But before trying any type of treatment, check with your medical provider.
We live in a world where perfection is sought in most situations; whether you work in a large city or on a rural farm, pain feels the same. Our Indigenous communities have had to fight for justice, and our fight will never cease. But along the way, we must cater to our mind, body, and soul as sacred instruments. Today is a fresh start to an upcoming year filled with promise and obligation to continue to make our ancestors proud. As a valuable people, we do not have control of another’s mind, but we can give each other the greatest gift—information.
Remember help is always there. You can locate your local resources, pick up a book, or call NAMI, the National Alliance of Mental Illness, or SAMHSA, which is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health National Hotline. Nationally, you can read more great articles from Indian Voices.
