The nervous system is sometimes referred to as our body’s computer. It is the most complex system in the body and controls hundreds of activities. There are two parts to the nervous system: the central nervous system (CNS) made up of the brain and spinal cord and the peripheral nervous system (PNS) made up of all the nerves that come from the CNS.
Nerves are cordlike structures made up of fibres that transport messages or impulses between a part of the brain and some other body part or region.
The nervous system monitors and controls functions that we are not even aware of for example breathing and the circulation of blood. It allows us to communicate and express emotions and helps us to think and learn new activities for example, how to play a musical instrument.
Problems that may happen to the nervous system can be related to damage caused by injury, infection or blood vessel problems. Sometimes the first sign of a problem is the sensation of pain.
The nervous system plays a very important role in our mental health and sometimes when a problem happens people feel very embarrassed and isolated. Such disorders as depression, irrational fear and anxiety are common and well understood. If you think you have a mental health problem see your DOCTOR immediately as these problems can be treated and cured very effectively to return to a normal life.
Do not be embarrassed to consult your DOCTOR – remember your DOCTOR is trained to deal with such problems and he or she will approach these in the same way as with any other medical problem
Do you want to learn more about mental health? Find out about the most common mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, and ways to manage these conditions
Read our mental health guide:
