Mental Illness: Damn Those Neurotransmitters!

Neurotransmitters are chemicals that transmit messages from one nerve cell (neuron) to another.The mechanism of action and localization of neurotransmitters in the brain has provided valuable information concerning the cause of many mental disorders, and in researching medications that allow normal flow and movement of neurotransmitter molecules.

Impairment of dopamine-containing neurons in the brain is implicated in schizophrenia , a mental disease marked by disturbances in thinking and emotional reactions. Medications that block dopamine receptors in the brain, have been used to alleviate the symptoms and help patients return to a normal social setting.

In depression, which afflicts about 3.5% of the population, there appears to be abnormal excess or inhibition of signals that control mood, thoughts, pain, and other sensations.

Depression is treated with antidepressants that affect norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain. The antidepressants help correct the abnormal neurotransmitter activity. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) that appear to establish the level of serotonin required to function at a normal levels.

As the name implies, the drug inhibits the re-uptake of serotonin neurotransmitters from synaptic gaps, thus increasing neurotransmitter action. In the brain, then, the increased serotonin activity alleviates depressive symptoms.

People with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) experience excessive worry that causes problems at work and in the maintenance of daily responsibilities. Evidence suggests that GAD involves several neurotransmitter systems in the brain, including norepinephrine and serotonin.


Today marks the fourth day of Mental Health Awareness Week in the United States. I dedicate this week to, thus, raising awareness here and around the world.

Laurie