'Happy hormones' and how they support our wellbeing

Lysn psychologist, Sarah Cox recently spoke to The Latch about all things ‘happiness chemicals’ and how they play a foundational role in the regulation of our moods, emotions and key physiological functions.

Dopamine, endorphins, serotonin and oxytocin have each been identified to influence our experience of happiness and pleasure. Deficits or issues affecting these chemicals may contribute to a person’s vulnerability to a wide range of physical and mental health issues, such as depressive or anxiety disorders.

Cox shares that “while research is still emerging about the complexities of how these chemicals, we do know there is a lot we can do through our behaviour and lifestyle to enhance the balance of these chemicals and support our overall wellbeing.”

So what exactly are these chemicals?

Dopamine

“Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in movement, learning and memory, as well as pleasure, satisfaction and motivation. When we do something that feels good or when we achieve something, our brain releases dopamine which makes us feel great” explains Cox.

This dopamine release allows some behaviours or activity to become rewarding because it feels good, and we’re motivated to do it again. Cox shares that “sometimes we start to crave the good feelings associated with a dopamine release, and, if taken to the extreme, that can contribute to unhealthy habits, like constantly checking social media or turning to food when we feel stressed.”

Endorphins

Cox says that "Endorphins are hormones that our brain releases in response to pain or stress." There are actually about 20 different types of endorphins, and they are considered to be our body’s natural pain killers. They can also create feelings of wellbeing, so if we want to boost our happiness, doing things that release endorphins can help.

Serotonin

Serotonin functions as a neurotransmitter and hormone in our brain and body to support our mood and mental health. “It plays a role in regulating sleep, appetite, digestion, learning and memory, and sexual desire” says Cox. Interestingly, it is estimated that about 90-95% of our serotonin is actually produced in our gut.

Oxytocin

Oxytocin also known as the ‘love hormone’ can assist in our capacity to build relationships. Cox shares that “It’s released at moments of intense connectedness such as during sex, and during childbirth and breast feeding. It helps us trust, empathise, fall in love and feel bonded to others. It has also been linked to helping regulate stress.”

To learn more about the behaviours and lifestyle changes you can make to enhance the balance of these chemicals and support your wellbeing read the full article here.