Autoimmune disorders and psychiatric conditions are two seemingly unrelated health concerns, but recent research indicates that the two may share a significant correlation.

What Are Autoimmune Disorders?

Autoimmune disorders occur when the immune system attacks healthy cells and tissues in the body, mistaking them for foreign invaders.

This attack can cause inflammation and damage in various organs and systems, leading to a range of symptoms and health problems.

Examples of autoimmune disorders include:.

Rheumatoid arthritis
Lupus
Celiac disease
Multiple sclerosis
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

What Are Psychiatric Conditions?

Psychiatric conditions refer to mental health disorders that affect a person’s thinking, mood, and behavior. These conditions can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, environment, and lifestyle.

Examples of psychiatric conditions include:.

Depression
Anxiety disorders
Bipolar disorder
Schizophrenia
Obsessive-compulsive disorder

The Correlation Between Autoimmune Disorders and Psychiatric Conditions

While the connection between autoimmune disorders and psychiatric conditions isn’t fully understood, research has shown that the two may be linked through a shared inflammatory response in the body.

When the immune system is activated in response to an autoimmune disorder, it triggers inflammation throughout the body.

This inflammatory response has been found to affect the brain and nervous system, leading to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other psychiatric conditions.

Studies have also shown that people with autoimmune disorders are at a higher risk of developing psychiatric conditions, and vice versa. For example:.

A 2016 study found that people with multiple sclerosis had an increased risk of developing depression and anxiety, compared to the general population.
A 2015 study found that people with celiac disease were more likely to have symptoms of depression and anxiety, even when following a strict gluten-free diet.
A 2018 study found that people with lupus had higher rates of depression and anxiety, as well as an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

Possible Mechanisms for the Correlation

While the exact mechanisms that link autoimmune disorders and psychiatric conditions are not fully understood, there are several theories that researchers are exploring. These include:.

Shared Genetics

There may be shared genetic factors that predispose some people to both autoimmune disorders and psychiatric conditions.

For example, studies have found that people with a family history of autoimmune disorders are more likely to have a family history of psychiatric conditions as well.

Inflammation in the Brain

As mentioned earlier, the inflammatory response triggered by autoimmune disorders can affect the brain and nervous system, leading to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other psychiatric conditions.

Dysbiosis and the Gut-Brain Connection

The gut microbiota may play a role in the link between autoimmune disorders and psychiatric conditions.

Research has found that people with autoimmune disorders have altered gut microbiota, which can affect the communication between the gut and the brain. This connection, known as the gut-brain axis, may be disrupted in people with autoimmune disorders, leading to psychiatric symptoms.

How to Address Autoimmune Disorders and Psychiatric Conditions

Because autoimmune disorders and psychiatric conditions are often interconnected, it’s important to address both health concerns when treating patients.

This may involve a combination of traditional medical treatments, such as medication and therapy, as well as lifestyle changes and alternative therapies that can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.

Some strategies that may be helpful include:.

Eating a healthy, anti-inflammatory diet
Practicing stress-reducing techniques such as yoga or meditation
Getting regular exercise
Assessing and treating any nutrient deficiencies
Working with a healthcare provider who specializes in both autoimmune disorders and psychiatric conditions

Conclusion

Autoimmune disorders and psychiatric conditions may seem like distinct health concerns, but there is a growing body of evidence that indicates a significant correlation between the two.

By understanding this connection, healthcare providers can provide more effective and comprehensive care for patients with these conditions, helping them to achieve better overall health and well-being.