neurotransmitters

Dopamine

D.R.I.V.E. Desire, Reward, Initiative, Voluntary action, Euphoria – central to reward, motivation, and goal-directed behavior. Imbalances are linked to addiction and schizophrenia.

Serotonin

S.T.A.B.L.E. Sleep, Temp, Appetite, Balance, Low mood, Emotion – regulates mood, sleep, and appetite. Low levels are tied to depression and anxiety.

Norepinephrine (Noradrenaline)

A.L.E.R.T. Arousal, Learning, Energy, Refocus, Threat – boosts alertness, focus, and stress response. It prepares the brain and body for action.

Acetylcholine

F.O.C.U.S. Focus, Organizing thoughts, Cognition, Understanding, Stimuli – supports attention and memory. Crucial in both the central and peripheral nervous systems.

Glutamate

G.E.A.R. Growth, Excitation, Association, Retention – main excitatory transmitter for learning and memory. Too much can cause excitotoxicity.

GABA

C.A.L.M. Controls Anxiety, Lowers activity, Mutes excitation – main inhibitory neurotransmitter. Reduces excessive neural activity and induces calm.

Oxytocin

L.I.N.K. Love, Intimacy, Nurture, Kinship – promotes bonding, trust, and social connection. Important in childbirth, breastfeeding, and affection.

Endorphins

P.A.I.N.T. Pleasure, Analgesia, Inhibition, Natural reward, Tolerance – blocks pain and creates euphoria. Released during exercise, stress, or pleasure.

Histamine

W.A.K.E. Watchfulness, Arousal, Kickstart alertness, Engage – helps maintain wakefulness and regulates immune response. Also causes inflammation and allergic symptoms.

Adrenaline (Epinephrine)

R.U.S.H. React, Unleash strength, Speed up, Heartbeat – prepares the body for fight-or-flight. Increases heart rate, energy, and alertness.