Psychological disorders are a major health concern in contemporary society, as people with psychological problems are at a higher risk of developing various other health complications, such as hypertension. A thorough understanding of psychological disorders is necessary because it is the starting point for finding reliable solutions. Existing literature presents limited information about the nature of relationships between psychological disorders and various neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, a vital body chemical found in blood platelets, bowels, and the brain.
Serotonin aids the conveyance of neural signals throughout the body. It is formed through the biochemical combination of tryptophan, a protein component, and tryptophan hydroxylase, which is a chemical reactor. Wu et al. (2019) posit that, as a precursor to melatonin, serotonin aids the regulation of the body’s internal clock and sleep-wake cycles. Nevertheless, serotonin levels affect human emotions, appetite, cognitive, motor, and autonomic functions, although researchers have not found scientific evidence of the relationship between the chemical and these body functions (Wu et al., 2019). Hence, it might be necessary to focus on the exact nature of interactions between serotonin levels and depression.
Anyone with an interest in research on various psychological disorders may want to explore the relationship between serotonin and mental health. Wu et al. (2019) posit that the link between serotonin and depression is blurrily understood, making it a potentially thought-provoking area of study and further research. It might be necessary to embark on research to determine whether low serotonin levels in the body culminate in depression. Essentially, the serotonin levels vary depending on an individual’s mood. However, the same interventions used to boost serotonin help alleviate the effects of depression, making it difficult to determine what process precedes the other.
Response to Question A (First Student)
Your post starts with a detailed overview of the causes and implications of a damaged hypothalamus. Patients may show various signs, such as weight loss, fatigue, chills, impaired vision, and infertility. However, these signs are closely associated with anxiety and stress, which might make it difficult to determine whether a patient has a damaged hypothalamus or a different condition. Nevertheless, I agree with the assertion that the hypothalamus is heavily linked to the basic functions of the body.
Response to Question B (Second Student)
Your post starts with a concise overview of the conditions that trigger the release of endorphin neurotransmitters by the pituitary gland in the hypothalamus. I agree with your account of how the endorphin hormone operates within the peripheral and central nervous system to offset pain and anxiety, as you support it with credible references. I realize that endorphin activates dopamine transmitters to cause pleasurable sensations. However, it might be interesting to research possible ways to stimulate the release of endorphins in persons experiencing pain and depression.
Reference
Wu, H., Denna, T. H., Storkersen, J. N., & Gerriets, V. A. (2019). Beyond a neurotransmitter: The role of serotonin in inflammation and immunity. Pharmacological Research, 140(1), 100-114. Web.