123. Colds, Viruses, & Depression
In this episode, we're talking about the relationship between viruses and depression. We'll cover how viral illnesses can negatively impact mood, how this process is completely natural, and how it can go awry. We'll hit on the role of inflammation, and how mood-regulating chemicals in the brain such as serotonin and dopamine can get disrupted. And of course, we'll cover some strategies to help restore our system after clearing a virus (i.e., rest, hydration, a nutrient-rich diet, and supportive supplements).
About Joy Lab: The Joy Lab Podcast blends science and soul to help you cope better with stress, ease anxiety, and uplift mood. Join Dr. Henry Emmons and Dr. Aimee Prasek for practical, mindfulness-based tools and positive psychology strategies to build resilience and create lasting joy.
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KEY MOMENTS:
00:00 Introduction to Joy Lab Podcast
00:38 Understanding Viruses and Mental Health
01:32 Personal Experience with Viral Illness
02:10 The Science Behind Viral Illness and Mood
04:39 The Role of the Immune System in Mood Regulation
07:44 Understanding Postviral Fatigue and Syndrome
10:40 Strategies for Mood Support After Clearing a Virus
11:57 The Role of Nutrition and Supplements in Recovery
15:11 Closing Thoughts and Quote
15:57 Disclaimer and Conclusion
Sources and Notes:
- Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life.
- Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join us over at Joylab.coach for exclusive emails, updates, and additional strategies.
- Check out our favorite resilience-boosting reads: Bookshop.org
- Dantzer, R., O'Connor, J. C., Freund, G. G., Johnson, R. W., & Kelley, K. W. (2008). From inflammation to sickness and depression: when the immune system subjugates the brain. Nature reviews. Neuroscience, 9(1), 46–56. Access here.
Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.
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If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at [email protected]. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.
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On Jan 1st, 2025, the Joy Lab Podcast and Program moved from Natural Mental Health to the nonprofit Pathways North.
