All the systems in our body are wonderful assets because of their roles and the way they’re all interlinked and support one another—giving rise to an entire inner biological world. This organization inside our bodies works because there is balance. This means that if something goes wrong with one area, things start to go amiss with all other systems because of a ripple effect.
You may have seen this happen to someone close to you who suffers from depression. This mental health issue affects millions of American adults in any given year, yet very few people understand it for the multifaceted disorder that it is. If you or a loved one suffers from clinical depression, you may know about the overpowering effect the illness can have, both mentally and physically. When people with depression have a hard time going about their normal lives, science says it’s not just because they lack willpower.
The Mind and Body Link
Your mind is heavily linked with your brain and other systems, which, in turn, are closely tied with various other parts of your body. Your immune system is one such important system that relies on your brain to work the way it’s supposed to.
Whenever you get sick or become injured, your immune system comes to your rescue by sending immune cells to the areas where you’re hurt to fix things up after your brain signals it.
Depression and the Immune System
Depressive symptoms can appear in various ways, and one way you’re able to feel them is through your immune system not working properly. Research shows that some people who have depression also have elevated levels of inflammatory cells in their bodies, indicating that their immune system may not be in the best condition.
How Inflammatory Cells Form
When you’re depressed, you feel tired constantly. This long-term fatigue raises the levels of a stress hormone in your body called cortisol. Cortisol is what supports the functions of your microglia cells, which play an important part in protecting your healthy nerve cells. But when cortisol levels surge, your microglia cells go haywire and start to produce an inflammatory protein that inflames your brain.
When your brain is affected, your immune system stops functioning as it’s supposed to. You’re then more likely to get a cold and develop a tendency for heart disease due to the inflammation. Your immune system is simply not strong enough to fight off invading bacteria and viruses anymore.
For depression treatment in Maryland, connect with Tavicare, a leading healthcare facility in the state. Their serotonin hormone replacement, as well as thyroid hormone replacement therapies work as alternatives to antidepressants. Book your appointment now.
Disclaimer: This post is only intended for educational purposes and shouldn’t be used as a substitute for medical advice.
Leave A Reply