Author: Pratiksha Goswami
DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.70798/Bijmrd/04010017
Abstract: This article examines the dynamic and reciprocal relationship between mental health and physiology from an integrated bio-psychosocial perspective. Moving beyond historical mind–body dualism, contemporary research in neuroscience, endocrinology, and psychoneuroimmunology demonstrates that psychological processes are deeply rooted in biological systems. The paper explores neurobiological foundations of mental health, highlighting the roles of the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, hippocampus, neurotransmitters, and neural circuits in emotional and cognitive regulation. It further analyzes the physiological mechanisms of stress, including the Sympathetic-Adrenal-Medullary system and the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis, emphasizing the distinction between adaptive acute stress and harmful chronic stress. Hormonal influences—such as cortical, thyroid hormones, sex hormones, and oxytocin—are discussed in relation to mood regulation and psychiatric symptoms. The article also reviews psychoneuroimmcomunological evidence linking immune functioning, inflammation, and depression. Overall, mental health and physiology are presented as interdependent systems operating within a continuous feedback loop essential for resilience and well-being.
Keywords: Mental Health; Stress Physiology; Neurobiology; Hormonal Regulation; Psychoneuroimmunology.
Page No: 120-127