Depression and immune function

Depression and Immune Function

Depression (pronounced /dɪˈprɛʃ(ə)n/) is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act. It causes feelings of sadness and/or a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease a person’s ability to function at work and at home.

The term depression is derived from the Latin verb deprimere, "to press down". From the 14th century A.D., "to depress" meant to subjugate or to bring down in spirits. It was used in 1665 in English author Richard Baker's Chronicle to refer to someone having "a great depression of spirit", and by English author Samuel Johnson in a similar sense in 1753.

Depression is linked to the immune system, which is the body's defense against diseases. The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against harmful invaders.

Depression can affect the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off sickness. This is because chronic stress or depression can cause the body to enter a state of constant inflammation. This inflammation can affect the immune system's ability to fight off bacteria or viruses, leading to increased risk of physical illnesses.

Related terms include Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Dysthymia, Seasonal Affective Disorder, Postpartum Depression, and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder.

See Also

• Mental Health
• Psychiatry
• Psychology
• Neuroscience
• Immunology

References

• Depression and the Immune System: A Comprehensive Approach to the Prevention and Treatment of Negative Mood States by Paul H. Wender
• The Immune System Recovery Plan: A Doctor's 4-Step Program to Treat Autoimmune Disease by Susan Blum

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Depression and immune function
• Wikipedia's article - Depression and immune function

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