04/29/2020
Isolation can cause or significantly exacerbate depression. If you’re struggling with loneliness, sadness, heightened trauma symptoms, or stress, please reach out and we’ll connect you with one of our licensed therapists.
The connection between psychological well-being and physical health is real and experts call it “psychoneuroimmunology.” What are the mechanisms behind it? Research shows that depression ramps up the production of proinflammatory cytokines while compromising immune response. Anxiety and stress can trigger the body’s fight-or-flight response, which increases cortisol levels and alters immune system responses. And other mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, have long been associated with immune system dysfunction.
Seeking treatment for mental health issues is a critical step in shoring up the immune system.
HYDRATE YOUR BRAIN AND BODY.
Staying adequately hydrated is critical for fending off viruses. Water oxygenates your brain and body so they can function at optimal levels. When your cells are operating at full capacity, they are better able to perform their primary functions. And when your brain is well-hydrated it helps you handle stress more effectively and allows you to make better decisions to help minimize your exposure to illness. For proper hydration, drink half your body weight in ounces of water. For example, if you weight 150 pounds, drink 75 ounces of water a day.
