Stress and Inflammation: New Perspectives on Major Depressive Disorder

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this review is to provide an integrated account of how life stress affects inflammation in the body, how the dysregulation of immune pathways is linked with depression and other chronic diseases, and which stress reduction techniques are applicable to specifically reverse these factors contributing to disease development. Stressors in the modern environment will be defined as they relate to the immune system and major depressive disorder (MDD) development. The inflammatory theory of depression will also be examined as it relates to these stressors. Lastly, research on the efficacy of various stress reduction techniques will be discussed, including specifically how they may be used to counter the inflammatory instigators of MDD. In this manner, this review will provide a cumulative roadmap for providers and patients alike to trace the development of MDD and further avenues for treatment of this complex disease.