The Inflammatory Response: Understanding inflammation and the immune system in states of mind – Webcast Live from London

Many of us, including our psychotherapy clients, may suffer from unexplained symptoms of debilitation, and of depression, without a clear context. In fact, general practitioners say that about 25 per cent of their consultations are with patients for whom they cannot give a medical diagnosis or treatment and this can be a key issue in psychotherapy.

This day will talk us through the latest findings about the biofeedback loops between inflammation, the immune system and states of mind. The role of underlying low-grade inflammation is a rapidly growing and fascinating area of research that might have great relevance to psychotherapy practice.

Our two expert presenters will describe some of the biofeedback loops between stress, inflammation and the immune system. We will discover how inflammation stemming from persistent pathogens may influence the development of mood disorders to a significant extent – actually to a greater extent than inflammation resulting from acute infections. Researchers have found that recurring negative moods are associated with elevated levels of inflammatory biomarkers. These pro-inflammatory chemicals can give rise to physical, cognitive and behavioural changes, typically fatigue and cognitive impairments. They are known to be raised in people who suffer from depression compared to non-depressed ones (Happakoski et al., 2015) and can predict the severity of depressive symptoms.

This seminar will be packed with information about the biology that underpins these insights, as well as practical examples of safe lifestyle interventions that might support psychotherapeutic approaches. Our recommended advance reading is Edward Bullmore’s book, The Inflamed Mind (Short Books, 2019), which explains how and why mental disorders can have their roots in the immune system and how mind, brain and body work together.