New research suggests there may be a link between inflammation and depression, and Psychology Today says there are some physical steps you can take that might help. As with any treatment regimen, we encourage you to discuss your choices with a mental health professional and/or your physician. Here’s an excerpt from Psychology Today’s article, and you can click the link provided below to keep reading.
A new study published in The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry supports the premise that increased inflammation may play a role in depression. The large study examined data from 14,275 people who were interviewed between 2007 and 2012 using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) to screen for depression and had blood samples drawn. They found that people who had depression had 46% higher levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammatory disease, in their blood samples. The study was only able to establish an association between depression and inflammation but not causation, though it confirms the association of depression with high levels of inflammation as measured through CRP.
The theory that depression may be viewed as a psychoneuroimmunological disorder can also help explain why efforts to reduce chronic inflammation in the body also improves and helps prevent depression. Here are five scientifically proven ways you can help reduce inflammation:
- Reduce your overall stress levels. Chronic stress has been shown to worsen inflammation in the body, leading to both harmful physical and mental effects. Even when things are hectic, find ways to take care of yourself and reduce stress. It’s not just good for your mind, but your body as well.