By By Tim Sandle Nov 18, 2014 in Science Some types of major depressive disorder (MDD) could be re-assessed as infectious diseases, according to a new study. The study suggests that some forms of depression result from parasitic, bacterial, or viral infection. A leading scientist argues that for many types of depression treatments, and associated research, has been in the wrong direction. Dismissing psychology completely and focusing on physical causes, a leading scientist argues that future research should examine the role of parasites, bacteria, or viruses in terms of triggering mental health disorders in people. The research was conducted by Turhan Canli, PhD, Associate Professor of Psychology and Radiology at Stony Brook University. The reasons for this, Dr. Canli argues, are 1. Patients with MDD express illness related behavior such as loss of energy, and that the use of inflammatory biomarkers suggest an illness-related origin. 2. There is apparent evidence that parasites, bacteria and viruses that infect humans in a way that alters their emotional behavior. 3. If the human body is considered to be an ecosystem for microorganisms and these organisms can how the human body functions, then the fact that certain pathogens can influence mood and behavior is not surprising. Dr. Canli suggests that research funding should be granted for studies with depressed patients and infectious-diseases to determine any association between specific infectious diseases and depression. The findings have been In MDD is a common condition, with up to 15 percent of the population experiencing a form of depression at some stage in their lives. Moreover, a repeat of the feelings associated with depression often re-occurs.A leading scientist argues that for many types of depression treatments, and associated research, has been in the wrong direction. Dismissing psychology completely and focusing on physical causes, a leading scientist argues that future research should examine the role of parasites, bacteria, or viruses in terms of triggering mental health disorders in people. The research was conducted by Turhan Canli, PhD, Associate Professor of Psychology and Radiology at Stony Brook University.The reasons for this, Dr. Canli argues, are three-fold 1. Patients with MDD express illness related behavior such as loss of energy, and that the use of inflammatory biomarkers suggest an illness-related origin.2. There is apparent evidence that parasites, bacteria and viruses that infect humans in a way that alters their emotional behavior.3. If the human body is considered to be an ecosystem for microorganisms and these organisms can how the human body functions, then the fact that certain pathogens can influence mood and behavior is not surprising.Dr. Canli suggests that research funding should be granted for studies with depressed patients and infectious-diseases to determine any association between specific infectious diseases and depression.The findings have been published in the journal Biology of Mood & Anxiety Disorders. The paper is headed “Reconceptualizing major depressive disorder as an infectious disease.”In related news , some scientists think that infection with Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite transmitted by soil, undercooked meat and cat feces, could be linked to schizophrenia. More about Depression, Infection, Disease More news from Depression Infection Disease