Anxiety and Depression: Linkages with Viral Diseases

• Type of Material: Article
• Authors: Steven Coughlin, Emory University
• Language: English
• Date: 2012-12
• Publisher: BMC (part of Springer Nature)
• Publication Version: Final Published Version
• Copyright Statement: © 2012, Springer Nature
• License: Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International
• Final Published Version (URL): http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF03391675
• Title of Journal or Parent Work: Public Health Reviews
• ISSN: 0301-0422
• Volume: 34
• Issue: 2
• Keywords: influenza A virus; hepatitis C; H1N1 subtype; generalized anxiety disorder; major depression; acquired immune deficiency syndrome; acute repiratory distress syndrome; varicella-zoster virus
• Research Categories: Psychology, Social; Biology, Virology; Health Sciences, Public Health

Abstract

Anxiety and mood disorders are common in the general population in countries around the world. This article provides a review of the recent literature on anxiety and depressive disorders with a focus on linkages with several important viral diseases. Although the majority of studies have been conducted in developed countries such as the United States and Great Britain, some studies have been carried out in less developed nations where only a small percentage of persons with mental illness receive treatment for their condition. The studies summarized in this review indicate that there are important linkages between anxiety and depression and viral diseases such as influenza A (H1N1) and other influenza viruses, varicella-zoster virus, herpes simplex virus, human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome, and hepatitis C. Additional studies are needed to further clarify the mechanisms for interactions between mental health and communicable diseases, in order to assist patients and further prevention and control efforts.