Additionally, the serum levels of orphanin FQ and interleukin-2 were significantly lower in the study group (<i>p</i> < 0.05).<h4>Conclusion</h4>Shugan Jieyu capsule treatment combined with group psychological counseling was shown to effectively alleviate alexithymia, anxiety, and depression; improve sleep quality; reduce serum levels of orphanin FQ and interleukin-2; and enhance personal and social performances, self-care ability, quality of life, and nursing satisfaction in hemodialysis patients. Here, IL2 is linked to depressive disorder.