How does the way you feel affect your immune system?

2 mins to read

Mood can have a profound effect on many aspects of health. We take a closer look at an interesting field of research which delves into the influence of mood on the immune system.

Cold, flu & immunity

In the early days of studying health and wellbeing, researchers focused primarily on the physical aspects and how this could be attributed to illness. These days, we are becoming increasingly aware of the impact that mood can have on our health.

Moods

Mood is a general term to explain how we feel emotionally; it is fluid and may change day to day, week to week or month to month. Moods can be triggered by many things, including work or family stress, interactions with others or internal dialogue. Moods can also be influenced by personality traits, such optimism or pessimism.

How can moods affect immunity?

The effect mood has on immunity is complex and is constantly being researched. However, we do know that the mind influences the nervous system (the brain and the nerve pathways that communicate with the rest of the body). The brain sends messages to the rest of the body through these pathways. It is via these pathways that the immune system can be influenced by the mind. Much research goes into the study of the interaction between psychology, the brain and the immune system. This area of research is known as psychoneuroimmunology.

Glass half empty

When it comes to personality traits, the way we respond to events may impact our health. Research has suggested that pessimists may have more health problems later in life. One particular study gave a questionnaire to 116 students to determine whether they were a pessimistic type or optimistic type. Their saliva was then collected and tested for IgA levels (IgA levels are a marker of innate immunity, our body’s first line of defence). The more pessimistic group had lower IgA levels than the optimists.

The power of positivity

Lifting our moods and experiencing pleasure may help us to maintain the health of our immune system. Here are some tips which may help you boost your mood.

Exercise
Endorphins, chemicals that can boost mood by giving feelings of pleasure, are released with moderate exercise.

Listen to music
Listening to music we like generally makes us feel good, so put on one of your favourite albums, dance around the house and boost your mood! Researchers have even discovered that music can, in part, sway the immune system’s release of IgA.

Get outside
Now that we are coming into the warmer months, get outside and enjoy some of that glorious sunshine. Some people may find their mood drops from being cooped up inside during the winter months. Shake off the winter hibernation and enjoy some fresh air!

Laugh
Laughter can be the best medicine, and research has suggested this: one U.S. study showed IgA levels rose 20 per cent in men and women who watched a video of Richard Pryor, an American comedian. Watch a funny movie or TV show, or even spend time with someone who makes you laugh.

Reference available on request