SCIENTISTS REVEAL A FASCINATING LINK BETWEEN THE IMMUNE SYSTEM AND ANXIETY

[SheltieLover]

https://www.inverse.com/mind-body/immune-system-anxiety-study/amp

We know, for example, that a difference in immune response could explain why men, as well as older patients in general, are more likely to die from the disease. We also know that the pandemic is taking a toll emotionally, driving symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Research published this week, however, is another reminder that it’s time to consider these crises holistically. A new understanding of a molecular link emphasizes that mental health is health, and the immune system is intimately connected to emotions.

Scientists report in the journal Nature Immunology that an immune molecule called IL-17 may be a key link between the immune system and its effect on the mind and body. Experiments demonstrated that interactions between this molecule and neurons in the brain can influence anxiety-like behaviors in mice.

More at link.

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Those who have tried it have said they felt much better after watching the 1st video, which is available immediately upon course registration.

https://www.coursera.org/learn/the-science-of-well-being?utm_source=gg&utm_medium=sem&utm_campaign=01-BrandedSearch-US&utm_content=01-BrandedSearch-US&campaignid=380484307&adgroupid=102187343498&device=m&keyword=&matchtype=b&network=g&devicemodel=&adpostion=&creativeid=433079694377&hide_mobile_promo&gclid=Cj0KCQjwnqH7BRDdARIsACTSAdv9DKBzr7dOWo_NtruDlg10qqsfWOZAXGrM069ZKfznxB_Y58LDKKAaAjmAEALw_wcB

[3catwoman3]

1. Thank you for this.

I'll definitely take a look.

[gristy]

2. SHORTER LINK!

https://www.coursera.org/learn/the-science-of-well-being

[PoindexterOglethorpe]

3. No surprise to me.

Being generally upbeat and positive is my default way to be.

I have FB friends whose posts are almost only about their physical and mental health issues, and I want to say, "Get a grip! Put just a little of that energy into being positive about things and stuff might actually improve."

I don't, of course, because that would be insulting to them, but really, the energy they invest in being unwell really ought to be used elsewhere.

[moonscape]

4. When something comes natively to us, it can

be hard to understand why others can’t be the same way if only they try. You’d have to experience a different baseline to understand why it’s not just a matter of will, or desire or effort.

‘Get a grip’ is definitely not helpful.

[PoindexterOglethorpe]

5. That's why I don't say that to those people.

But I wish they'd figure out on their own that if they spend 90% of their time focussing on what ails them, there's nothing left over to concentrate on anything positive.

Again, it makes me crazy but I simply don't comment.

[I_UndergroundPanther]

15. Facing trauma

Changes your brain.
I don't focus on my
problems all the time but feeling positive about being in this world as it is isn't something I feel much anymore.

It's like my life is pre trauma,and post trauma. And I can't figure out how to go back to my pre trauma self.

I don't focus on negative all the time nor do I focus on the positive, to me it just is.

Because when I do positive it's like lying about what the world is to me.

I feel the same fakeness if I only focus on negative.

However to me the most wonderful beings in the world are cats. I owe them my life . And cats are my heart.

I hope this makes sense.

[smirkymonkey]

6. +1000

Thank you. I am normally a positive, cheerful person, but what has been going on lately has taken quite a toll on me and I am experiencing severe anxiety that I can't seem to shake off.

I have a history of depression and anxiety, but it has been well under control for the past 20 years or so. It scares me that it seems to be coming back. I am trying my best to change things, but as you have said, it's easier said than done.

[USALiberal]

14. Wow, really? nt

[Hugin]

7. Cheer up, peeps!

Turn that frown down side up.

Etc.

I know it's difficult, but, the alternative is sad.

I'd post the "Hang in there" kitten picture. I'm afraid it's copywritten, though.

[Crunchy Frog]

10. Is that for people with clinical depression? Clinical anxiety? Or both?

[Hugin]

12. I'd say it would be most effective for clinical anxiety...

Because, clinical depression has many associated physiological and cognitive aspects.

However, I'm thinking it would help with both. As, long term anxiety can ultimately lead to chronic depression due to actual physiological changes in the nervous system with long term stress. (Stressors which we are all being currently bombarded with, I will add.)

It's like the article says, the happier a person is the more overall healthy they will be.

[Crunchy Frog]

17. I've had both since I was four. If I could "put on a happy face" and "snap out of it"

believe me, I would.

Do you also think people in wheelchairs should stand up and walk away from them?

Anyway, thank you for your suggestions as a clinician. I will take them under advisement.

[Hugin]

18. Well, look at it like this, Crunchy.

For the last several years and especially the last year almost everyone has been dealing with more personal anxiety and depression than they've ever experienced in their lives. Comparable to what you've been living with for most of your life at least in relative terms. Levels that you've developed long term coping skills and insights for that are absent in almost everyone. Certainly in the literature as first hand knowledge.

I'd think that gives you the ability to help others to find their way in these times. I personally don't believe we'll be anywhere resembling the previous normal for quite some time.

So, no, I don't believe anyone is going to be leaping out of their wheelchair any time soon. But, why don't you help people understand and adapt to their situations. Instead of them becoming numb, which seems to be what is happening.

Food for thought?

[NightWatcher]

8. I've got lupus and other immune disorders and feel everything.

I not only feel my own anxiety, I'm a freakin empath and can tell when others hurt. It sucks and I've got to self medicate to turn it off these days.

[LiberalLoner]

11. Me too. MSer here.

[enid602]

9. anxiety

If there were a solid link between anxiety and immunity, all of us living in Trump World would long be dead.

[Talitha]

13. Worry is like a rocking chair - it doesn't get you anywhere but it sure keeps you busy!

Check out youtube for vids of giggly Babies - it's good for the soul.

[I_UndergroundPanther]

16. I look at lol cats

That is one of my go to coping mechanisms. And cats in general,and my kitty Othello too.