As research in neuroscience and mental health continues to evolve, one connection is becoming increasingly clear: inflammation in the brain, or neuroinflammation, plays a significant role in how we feel, think, and heal.
From depression and anxiety to long COVID brain fog, understanding this underlying cause may hold the key to new, more effective treatments.
At Neurotherapeutix, we specialize in identifying and treating the root causes of mental health struggles. In this post, we’ll explore what neuroinflammation is, how it contributes to depression and cognitive issues, and how we can help eliminate your symptoms for good.
What Is Neuroinflammation?
Neuroinflammation refers to inflammation within the brain and central nervous system.
Infections, autoimmune responses, traumatic brain injury, and prolonged psychological stress can trigger it.
In recent years, post-viral brain inflammation, particularly after COVID-19, has become a growing concern.
Does Inflammation Cause Brain Fog?
Yes, many experts believe that brain fog is one of the clearest signs of neuroinflammation.
When inflammation disrupts neural pathways, it becomes more challenging for the brain to process information efficiently, resulting in slower thinking and poorer memory.
Inflammation in the Brain and Its Impact on Function
Inflammation interferes with normal brain signaling. It disrupts communication between neurons and may impair the brain’s ability to regulate mood, memory, and focus. Over time, this can manifest as chronic fatigue, difficulty concentrating, or emotional dysregulation.
The Role of the Immune System in Neuroinflammation
Your body’s immune system is designed to protect you, but when activated persistently, such as in cases of long COVID or chronic stress, it can begin to attack healthy brain tissue.
This ongoing immune response contributes to symptoms like brain fog and depression.
How Neuroinflammation Affects Brain Chemistry
Neuroinflammation can alter the levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, both of which are crucial for regulating mood. When inflammation disrupts these chemicals, symptoms of depression and anxiety often follow.
Symptoms of Brain Inflammation
Common signs of neuroinflammation include:
- Persistent brain fog or mental sluggishness.
- Low mood or depression.
- Memory problems.
- Trouble focusing or making decisions.
- Fatigue or low energy.
Left untreated, chronic brain inflammation may contribute to neurodegenerative diseases and long-term mental health issues. That’s why early intervention and ongoing care are essential.
The Link Between Neuroinflammation and Depression
Multiple studies now show that inflammation in the brain can lead to depression, even in people without a history of mental illness.
This is especially true for individuals recovering from viral infections like COVID-19, who may experience inflammation-driven symptoms such as mood changes, sleep issues, or apathy.
What Causes Long COVID Brain Fog?
COVID-19 can affect the brain’s blood flow, oxygen supply, and immune response.
In some individuals, these changes persist well after infection, resulting in what’s often called “long COVID brain fog.” Symptoms include confusion, forgetfulness, and mental fatigue.
Depression and Anxiety After COVID-19
Many long COVID patients report increased depression and anxiety, which researchers now believe may be directly linked to neuroinflammation. The stress of illness, combined with biological changes in the brain, can significantly affect mental wellness.
How Neurotherapeutix NYC Can Help With Personalized Inflammation Support
At Neurotherapeutix, we offer advanced fMRI-guided TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) therapy to more precisely target the root causes of neuroinflammation. This non-invasive technique uses functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to map your brain activity and guide magnetic stimulation to the areas most impacted by inflammation or dysfunction.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) reduces brain inflammation by changing how brain cells and immune signals behave. It works in several ways:
- Balances brain activity – TMS targets specific brain areas to normalize overactive circuits that can trigger inflammation.
- Lowers harmful inflammation signals – It reduces pro-inflammatory molecules like IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α.
- Boosts protective signals – It increases anti-inflammatory and brain-supportive factors like IL-10 and BDNF.
- Calms immune cells in the brain – TMS reduces activity in microglia and astrocytes, the brain’s immune-like support cells.
- Regulates excitatory receptors – It decreases glutamate receptors (mGluR5 and NMDAR2B), which are linked to inflammation when overactive.
- Helps beyond the brain – TMS also affects nerve cells in the spine and peripheral nerves, reducing inflammation and nerve sensitivity.
In short: TMS helps the brain shift from an inflamed state to a more balanced, healing one — both by calming immune signals and improving how brain networks function.
We are the only clinic in the United States offering this patented approach. Each treatment plan is tailored to meet your individual needs.
Whether you’re struggling with post-COVID depression, brain fog, or persistent mental fatigue, we’re here to help.
Learn more about fMRI-guided TMS therapy, or contact us to schedule a consultation.
