Autonomic Dysfunction in Psychiatric Disorders

Abstract

The autonomic nervous system and its dysfunction are associated with many diseases. For a healthy individual, it is essential that the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems are balanced and functioning at a high capacity. Psychiatric disorders often exhibit disruptions in the activity of the vagus nerve, which can lead to autonomic dysfunction. People with psychiatric disorders, including panic disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety disorders, and substance addiction, often show reduced heart rate variability. Heart rate variability is a reliable marker for assessing autonomic functions, and decreased heart rate variability in individuals with psychiatric disorders can lead to an increased risk of sudden cardiac death. Autonomic dysfunction is observed in psychiatric disorders, and it occurs during the course of the illness, not necessarily at its onset. Autonomic dysfunction accelerates the progression of the disease. Therefore, controlling autonomic functions is crucial. This can help reduce disease symptoms and decrease the morbidity and mortality caused by autonomic dysfunction."