Essay One: Discussion Board Question
Though psychoneuroimmunology is a relatively new field, the link between physical well-being and emotions has been recognized by the medical field for centuries. Psychoneuroimmunology tends toward a holistic approach to well-being that considers body, mind, and spirit in connection with illness and disability. According to Mailoo and Williams (2004), psychoneuroimmunology is ôthe scientific study of the physiological two-way link between the mind and the immune systemö (7).
It is well documented that high levels of stress can have a deleterious impact on health, well-being, and the functioning of the immune system. From depression and low self-esteem to nervous breakdowns and burnout, high levels of stress undermine immune system functioning, making individuals more susceptible to a host of illnesses. In my own life, high levels of stress from going to school, working a full-time job, and caring for family have often had a negative impact on my mental disposition, sense of well-being, and health. High levels of stress have, at times, made me pay little attention to self-image or self-esteem. There have been days where I was unconcerned about my hygiene or dress, creating a sense of depression and fatigue in my demeanor. For one sustained period of time, my lack of ability to cope with stress caused me to remain depressed, fatigued, and experience an unusually high number of colds and headaches. I knew I needed to find some form of relaxation and stress management. I adopted the recreational activity of yoga at the local YWCA. These sessions were successful in helping me to alleviate stress and learn to relax. Once I was better at coping with stress, I noticed I paid more attention to my self-image and my self-esteem rose. I also experienced greater energy and had fewer headaches, once I began to routinely participate in my yoga classes. Therefore, psychoneuroimmunology demonst...