2022 Volume 37 Pages 24-31
The field of psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) examines interactions among psychological and behavioral states, the central autonomic nervous system, and the immune system and the implications of those interactions on mental and physical health. In this review, I consider the effects of stress on multiple levels of the the neuro-immune network in relation to the context of COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, I describe how stress influence the peripheral immune system, and how immune changes triggered by stress can influence the brain with effects on cognition, emotion, and behavior. I also consider how positive psychological states influence inflammatory processes that are closely related to physical and mental health, focusing on positive affect and eudaimonic well-being. I finish with a discussion of interventions that may be effective in improving immune function and mental and physical health.
