Neuroprogression: What it is and why you should know about it

This post was sponsored and developed by Otsuka Pharmaceutical Development & Commercialization, Inc.

Physical, behavioral, and emotional changes may indicate an underlying mental health condition.⁴ Examples of signs and symptoms that may indicate a mental health condition include changes in eating and sleeping habits, irritability, and uncaused physical ailments.⁴ As with a physical health condition, a mental health condition can start out mild and worsen over time; Therefore, it is very important not to ignore these signs and symptoms.^4.5

Neuroprogression is related to a series of biological processes that contribute to the gradual worsening, relapse and recurrence of mental health conditions.⁶ Neuroprogression has interconnected mechanisms, influenced by physiological, neurochemical, immunological and genetic factors.⁶ The result is structural and functional changes in multiple systems, specifically the nervous, immune, and metabolic systems.⁶

Stress is associated with poorer physical and mental health outcomes and can exacerbate underlying or existing conditions.¹² Mental health conditions are correlated with both physical and psychological stress, leading to systemic inflammation, including neuroinflammation.^6.13 Prolonged inflammation can lead to structural and chemical changes in the brain associated with neuroprogression. These changes could be irreversible if untreated and may lead to worse clinical outcomes.⁶

Longer and increased episodes of mental health conditions can accelerate neuroprogression and lead to further cognitive and physical decline.^1,2,7,14,15 The sooner an individual recognizes the symptoms of a potential mental health condition and seeks help, the sooner they can slow neuroprogression.¹⁶ For many mental health conditions, early intervention can lead to a greater chance of better outcomes.¹⁷ Timely intervention can help reduce the burden of disease and healthcare costs and improve the quality of life for both those with the mental health condition and their loved ones.¹⁷

Screening is a quick way to detect symptoms of mental illness.^18,19 Mental health screenings are recommended for everyone ages 8 and older and can lead to early intervention.^20-23 Primary care doctors and mental health professionals can perform screenings.¹⁸ There are also free, confidential, and scientifically validated online mental health screening tools that can help you determine if you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition.¹⁹

Even with similar symptoms and the same diagnosis, each individual has a different mental health journey.²⁴ Finding the right therapy can take time; The sooner a patient seeks therapy, the sooner they can potentially benefit from treatment.^7.25 Remember that in many cases, without proper treatment, neuroprogression can go uncontrolled, worsening symptoms and making recovery more difficult.⁶

Shivani Kapadia, PharmD, is medical director of global medical affairs, neuropsychiatry, at Otsuka Pharmaceutical Development & Commercialization, Inc (OPDC). She received her doctor of pharmacy degree from St. John’s University in Queens, New York.

Sara Asif Spencer, PharmD, MS, BCGP, is a medical science liaison, neuropsychiatry, at OPDC. She received her doctor of pharmacy degree from Albany College of Pharmacy in Albany, New York.

The views and opinions expressed in this blog are solely those of the author and external content does not necessarily reflect the views of Mental Health America.

References

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