The contribution of nervous system to homeostasis and its role in generalized anxiety disorder and depression

Abstract

Worldwide, major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder are known to be the foremost burden of disease. Usually, the symptoms of anxiety are often co morbid with depression, and so-called anxious depression is mainly connected with severe symptoms, impairments, and poor prognosis. This study aims to accomplish the link between anxiety and depression along with the role of nervous system in maintaining the homeostasis in this condition.

INTRODUCTION

The nervous system is chiefly responsible for the perception of internal and external conditions and the response of the body from them. The nervous system is known to have two major divisions: the peripheral and central nervous system. This system is mainly centered within the brain and all the impulses are generated from it. The brain is usually an organ which functions in the body however; the mind of human is an extremely intangible concept which connects to the physical organs along with the nervous system but it extends into the factors of human perception, reasoning abilities, as well as intelligence.

SEARCH STRATEGY

This comprehensive information was extracted from a variety of data bases, such as MEDLINE, CINHAL plus, and Bio Med Central, database by using the keywords; anxiety, depression, GAD, nervous system, and homeostasis. These data bases reveal a huge variety of definitions and studies related to the topic under study. The foundation of this dissertation will be based on qualitative and secondary data (Burns, 2000).

DISCUSSION

Role of nervous system in normal functioning

The autonomic nervous system has the most critical role in the health of a human being for the reason that it maintains the internal balance also it allows the individual for responding to the environmental stimuli. Issues arise when the system is either under or over active. The stress role on the autonomic nervous system results in serious consequences. The autonomic nervous system is mainly designed for responding to stress but a huge amount of stress can lead to abnormal resting organ tones. Therefore, it exemplifies high blood pressure and heart disease which can be treated by drugs along with blocking the autonomic nervous system. The nervous system is known to affect when the anxiety and stress is prolonged and prevalent, however the affect of stress is widespread through all the other systems as well.

Contribution to the maintenance of Homeostasis

Every system of the body contributes to the homeostasis of others systems as well as of an entire organism. No other system of the body works in isolation. The nervous system is not only responsible to store the nutrients but it is important that it should receive the continuous blood supply. Any blood flow interruption may result in death or damage of brain. By regulating and controlling the nervous system homeostasis is maintained by other body parts. From the normal set points a deviation proceeds as a stimulus to a specific receptor, which transfers the nerve impulse for regulating the center of the ...