Drugs, Depression & Antidepressants > How the Mind Works > Neurotransmitters > Serotonin

Serotonin

The role of Serotonin: There are many different neurotransmitters in the human mind. Each neurotransmitter has their own important role. Serotonin is the neurotransmitter most frequently related to depression, and controls many vital human functions. Serotonin and its derivatives regulate hunger, thirst, mood, breathing, sleep, confidence, perspective, self esteem, empathy, attitude and many other things.

Eating a well balanced diet: While we understand many of the vital things serotonin does, few people eat healthy enough to ensure they get adequate amounts of vitamins, minerals, or serotonin in their diet. I recommend using a multi vitamin and if you feel depressed, taking serotonin supplements may aid you in feeling better.

How to increase Serotonin levels naturally: While you can not buy serotonin directly, by taking 5HTP you can naturally elevate your serotonin levels.

Serotonin and synthetic drugs: In the synthetic antidepressants section we discuss how the synthetic pharmaceutical antidepressants affect serotonin. Just for contrast point of view and further understanding of serotonin I will describe how the popular club drug ecstasy affects your serotonin levels.

Why use natural antidepressents vice synthetic drugs? There are many types of natural antidepressants, and each of them effect each of us differently. Before taking any prescription synthetic antidepressant drugs to manipulate your neurochemistry I would recommend trying natural antidepressants. The natural antidepressants offer a more controlled way to control your serotonin levels. Despite drug companies saying that their pharmecuetical products are not habit forming, I have read over a hundred emails which state otherwise.

Serotonin Side Effects: Some of the effects of elevated serotonin levels are increased self confidence, lowered hunger, and a better ability to sleep and dream. As far as negative effects of elevated serotonin levels I would state that if your serotonin levels are overly elevated you may become drowsy, and if the serotonin levels go too high you will run into problems making complex decisions. Many people on synthetic drugs face a ton of side effects.

Drugs, Depression & Antidepressants > How the Mind Works > Neurotransmitters > Serotonin