Over the past few years, I have included serum ferritin as an inflammatory biomarker in my patients’ lab evaluations. Here is a good study on the topic:

https://academic.oup.com/metallomics/article/6/4/748/6015473?login=false

Low ferritin levels are linked to increased oxidative stress and cellular damage because ferritin normally sequesters iron, preventing it from generating harmful free radicals via the Fenton reaction. When ferritin stores are depleted, the body’s ability to safely store and regulate iron diminishes, potentially leaving more “free” iron available to catalyze the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS).

Low ferritin levels can affect mental health by contributing to symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and cognitive difficulties. Iron is required for the synthesis of dopamine and serotonin, as well as for oxygen delivery to the brain (25% of your cardiac output goes to your brain; your brain is very metabolically active). Here is a good discussion on Iron Deficiency and Mental Health:

https://www.simplypsychology.com/articles/iron-deficiency-mood-fatigue