Anxiety and Depression: Linkages with Viral Diseases

Abstract

Anxiety and mood disorders are common in the general population in countries around the world. This article provides a review of the recent literature on anxiety and depressive disorders with a focus on linkages with several important viral diseases. Although the majority of studies have been conducted in developed countries such as the United States and Great Britain, some studies have been carried out in less developed nations where only a small percentage of persons with mental illness receive treatment for their condition. The studies summarized in this review indicate that there are important linkages between anxiety and depression and viral diseases such as influenza A (H1N1) and other influenza viruses, varicella-zoster virus, herpes simplex virus, human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome, and hepatitis C. Additional studies are needed to further clarify the mechanisms for interactions between mental health and communicable diseases, in order to assist patients and further prevention and control efforts.

Child and adolescent mental health service provision and research during the Covid-19 pandemic: challenges, opportunities, and a call for submissions

“…We know from prior epidemics that there can be linkages between anxiety and depression and viral diseases such as Influenza A (H1N1) [10]. We anticipate the current crisis will have a similar impact on the mental health of children and adolescents.…”

Maintaining Health and Well-Being by Putting Faith into Action During the COVID-19 Pandemic

“…Few, however, understand that the very emotions we are all now experiencing actually increase our susceptibility to the dreaded virus. This is because of the adverse effects on immune functioning that fear, anxiety, and psychological distress cause (Glaser and Kiecolt-Glaser 2005;Coughlin 2012). Positive emotions, though, have the exact opposite effect on the immune system as do fear and anxiety.…”

Towards a Healthier 2020: Advancing Mental Health as a Global Health Priority

“…13 Certain biological mechanisms may mediate the impact of mental disorders on other health conditions. For example, major depression and psychological stress are associated with biological effects including reduced cell-mediated immunity and increased inflammatory processes, 14 as well as viral disease such as influenza A (H1N1) and other influenza viruses, varicella-zoster virus, herpes simplex virus, HIV/AIDS, and hepatitis C. 15 Moreover, certain health conditions can have a direct effect on the brain and result in mood or anxiety disorders as well as cognitive impairment. 3 Not only does mental illness negatively affect outcomes for other health conditions, individuals with severe and persistent mental and behavioral disorders are more likely to be burdened with additional health problems like obesity, smoking and substance abuse when compared to those without mental illness.…”