Neurotransmitters and Their Role in Mental Health
The third assumption of the biological approach in psychology focuses on the role of neurotransmitters in mental health and behavior. Neurons, the electrically excitable cells that form the basis of the nervous system, communicate with each other through chemical messengers called neurotransmitters.
Definition: Neurotransmitters are chemical substances that transmit signals across synapses, the junctions between neurons.
Neurons have branches called dendrites that allow them to connect with many other neurons. At the synapse, neurotransmitters are released from presynaptic vesicles in one neuron and may stimulate or inhibit receptors at the post-synaptic receptor in another neuron.
Highlight: Neurotransmitters play a significant role in mental health and psychological disorders.
Example: Low levels of serotonin are linked to depression. Antidepressant medications often work by increasing the availability of serotonin at post-synaptic receptors.
Vocabulary: Role of neurotransmitters in mental health psychology as level refers to the study of how these chemical messengers influence psychological well-being and disorders, as covered in AS level psychology courses.
Another example is the association between high levels of dopamine and schizophrenia. Some antipsychotic medications work by blocking dopamine activity to alleviate symptoms.
Understanding the role of neurotransmitters provides valuable insights into the biological basis of mental health disorders and informs the development of pharmacological treatments.
