There are hundreds of neurotransmitters but two that get most of the attention by far are serotonin and dopamine. (3)
Serotonin and dopamine are similar in structure and both fall under the banner of "feel good" brain chemicals.
While serotonin and dopamine each have their own unique set of functions, they both have an important role in one of the most prevalent mental disorders of our time -- depression.
For decades the prevailing theory was that depression is caused by lack of serotonin.
But there are reasons to believe that dopamine is equally important.
Before we compare serotonin and dopamine and examine how they influence depression, let's take a quick look at the main functions of each.
Serotonin: The "Happiness" Molecule
Serotonin is mostly known as …show more content…
The main symptom of poor serotonin activity is the inability to get enjoyment out of things you used to enjoy -- your favorite food, hobbies, and relationships. (DRK)
Disorders linked to low serotonin include depression, insomnia, anxiety, eating disorders, and obsessive compulsive disorder. (13)
Prescribing drugs that increase serotonin is the first line treatment for depression.
Dopamine: The "Motivation" Molecule
Dopamine is your “motivation molecule.”
It provides the drive and focus you need to take action.
Dopamine is also in charge of the pleasure-reward system.
Dopamine is released when your needs are about to be met and delivers a feeling of satisfaction when you’ve accomplished your goals. (18)
The main symptoms of low dopamine are lack of motivation and general apathy.
Disorders linked to dopamine dysfunction include attention disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, and addictions of all kinds, and Parkinson's disease. (3, 4)
Parkinson’s disease develops when brain cells that produce dopamine die leading to motor control issues.
The medical establishment rarely considers dopamine as a factor in
Serotonin and dopamine are similar in structure and both fall under the banner of "feel good" brain chemicals.
While serotonin and dopamine each have their own unique set of functions, they both have an important role in one of the most prevalent mental disorders of our time -- depression.
For decades the prevailing theory was that depression is caused by lack of serotonin.
But there are reasons to believe that dopamine is equally important.
Before we compare serotonin and dopamine and examine how they influence depression, let's take a quick look at the main functions of each.
Serotonin: The "Happiness" Molecule
Serotonin is mostly known as …show more content…
The main symptom of poor serotonin activity is the inability to get enjoyment out of things you used to enjoy -- your favorite food, hobbies, and relationships. (DRK)
Disorders linked to low serotonin include depression, insomnia, anxiety, eating disorders, and obsessive compulsive disorder. (13)
Prescribing drugs that increase serotonin is the first line treatment for depression.
Dopamine: The "Motivation" Molecule
Dopamine is your “motivation molecule.”
It provides the drive and focus you need to take action.
Dopamine is also in charge of the pleasure-reward system.
Dopamine is released when your needs are about to be met and delivers a feeling of satisfaction when you’ve accomplished your goals. (18)
The main symptoms of low dopamine are lack of motivation and general apathy.
Disorders linked to dopamine dysfunction include attention disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, and addictions of all kinds, and Parkinson's disease. (3, 4)
Parkinson’s disease develops when brain cells that produce dopamine die leading to motor control issues.
The medical establishment rarely considers dopamine as a factor in