psychoimmunology

n. The study of the interaction of psychological stimulation and responses with immune system reactivity. It is recognized that the level of resistance to many immune disorders is affected by psychological states and traits. In particular, resistance to the common cold rhinovirus is heavily influenced by psychological states of emotional distress or exhaustion, anxiety, and feelings of well-being. The inverse effect may be demonstrated as well: decreased levels of immunity may have pronounced effects on emotional distress/exhaustion, anxiety levels, and feelings of well-being. – VS