Electroacupuncture for Major Depression

Inclusion Criteria: Meet SCID criteria for a Major Depressive Disorder (Single or Recurrent) with a current major depressive episode of mild or moderate severity Significant symptoms of depression (HRSD > 14) Ability to communicate in English Give informed consent in accordance with local IRB regulations Exclusion Criteria: Personal physician's recommendation against enrollment because the patient is physically unstable or for other reasons Having been treated with acupuncture for any condition History of seizure disorder or significant risk factors for a seizure disorder (e.g., history of brain trauma, recent stroke, or brain tumor) Need to remain on antidepressant or other psychotropic medications Absence of depressive symptoms severe enough (i.e., HRSD < 14) at the baseline assessments Significant cognitive impairment, as assessed by a total score on the MMSE < 25. A recommendation for referral to a neurologist or a psychiatrist will be made to the patient in these cases. Chronic major depression (i.e, duration of 2 years or longer) A recommendation for referral to a psychiatrist will be made in these cases. Major depressive episode severe or severe with psychotic features (as per DSM-IV/SCID) or with acutely suicidality. A recommendation for psychiatric referral will be made in these cases. Bipolar disorder, psychotic features, or a psychotic disorder (specifically: schizophrenia, delusional disorder, or schizoaffective disorder). A recommendation for psychiatric referral will be made in these cases. Met criteria for a diagnosis of alcohol substance abuse or dependence within the past six months. A recommendation for referral to a mental health professional will be made in these cases.