Uploaded March 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Could inflammation be a hidden cause of depression?
Neurosurgeon Dr Kevin Tracey explains why some cases of depression may actually be linked to inflammation in the body. When inflammatory molecules are present, they can trigger symptoms that look remarkably like depression — fatigue, loss of motivation, social withdrawal, and low mood.
He also shares research showing how vagus nerve stimulation, a therapy that can switch off inflammation, has helped some patients with treatment-resistant depression — with around 50% responding, and many experiencing benefits lasting one to two years.
It raises an important possibility: for some people, treating the body’s inflammation may help heal the mind.
You can watch the full episode by searching “The Weekend University Dr. Kevin Tracey” or you can click the link in the comment section.
#VagusNerve
Credits: Dr. Kevin Tracey
Could inflammation be a hidden cause of depression?
Neurosurgeon Dr Kevin Tracey explains why some cases of depression may actually be linked to inflammation in the body. When inflammatory molecules are present, they can trigger symptoms that look remarkably like depression — fatigue, loss of motivation, social withdrawal, and low mood.
He also shares research showing how vagus nerve stimulation, a therapy that can switch off inflammation, has helped some patients with treatment-resistant depression — with around 50% responding, and many experiencing benefits lasting one to two years.
It raises an important possibility: for some people, treating the body’s inflammation may help heal the mind.
You can watch the full episode by searching “The Weekend University Dr. Kevin Tracey” or you can click the link in the comment section.
#VagusNerve
Credits: Dr. Kevin Tracey
