What is post flu depression?

Flu and depression are always been associated with one another. A person who is feeling down is more likely to contract the flu virus, because the body, just like the mind, feels down and the energy levels are not as high as they should be. A depressed mind makes the body depressed as well, and the immune response is significantly weaker.

Flu and depression

On the other hand, a person who is recuperating after flu is not very likely to feel cheerful and optimistic. It is not just because there is a lot of work to be done after sick days, because the apartment is messy, full of used handkerchiefs and half-eaten soup cans, but also because the virus that rampaged through the body has left it tired and fatigued. The energy is low and the body is taking some time to start producing all the right chemicals, including those associated with the mood. In addition to that, the cells and molecules participating in the immune response, such as cytokines, in their hunt for viruses also accidentally mop up serotonin, which is a brain chemical that improves the mood and whose low levels are strongly linked with depression.

Depression is a serious condition. For some people, it is so much more than just post-flu blues. But those who feel down after a bout of flu should know that there are many simple tips and tricks that can help them get feel much better.

How to overcome post-flu depression

Even though the symptoms are gone, that does not mean that it is alright to go back to the normal duties, especially if they are physically demanding. Doing only the light choirs, taking it easy and getting plenty of sleep during the night are very important in the battle against depression.

Vitamins are also very important, especially the vitamin B6. This vitamin participates in the production of serotonin and it is recommended to take at least 3.7 milligrams of it each day. It can be found in vitamin supplements, in fortified cereals, tuna, potatoes and bananas.

Quercetin is a flavonoid that keeps the immune system strong, and strong immune system means less chance of depression. Quercetin can be found in apples and broccoli. Green tea is also packed with flavonoids and it is recommended to drink three or four cups of it per day.

Moderate physical activity is always beneficial for depression sufferers. It should not be intense- a simple 15 minute walk or a bicycle ride will do.