A recent study has found that serotonin, a brain chemical known for its connection to mood, might be even more important than we thought—especially when it comes to how we handle negative situations.
In this study, researchers discovered that increasing serotonin levels helped people become less sensitive to negative outcomes, like losing money in a game, while still reacting normally to positive outcomes, like winning.
In other words, serotonin doesn’t necessarily make us feel “happier” by boosting positive feelings but instead helps us manage negative experiences better.
New insights on Serotonin and behavior
Traditionally, serotonin is thought of as the “happy chemical,” but this research suggests it may be more accurate to call it the “not-so-bad” chemical.
When serotonin levels were raised, participants were better able to control their reactions to negative feedback and had improved learning abilities.
They showed more resilience and were less affected by discouraging outcomes. Serotonin also helps with memory, especially when dealing with tough situations.
The study didn’t use traditional antidepressants, which work by blocking serotonin reuptake, but instead tested a new approach. Scientists used a special drug that directly boosts serotonin levels—this drug is typically used to treat a rare epilepsy condition, Dravet Syndrome.
This allowed researchers to examine serotonin’s effects more directly and understand its unique role in managing behaviour and emotions.
Changing how we think about Serotonin
Despite nearly a century of research, our understanding of how serotonin influences human behaviour has remained unclear and controversial.
Professor Catherine Harmer from Oxford’s Department of Psychiatry
She suggested that serotonin should be recognized for its role in processing negative events rather than just boosting positive responses.
The study’s co-author, Professor Susannah Murphy, highlighted how serotonin supports essential mental processes, like controlling unwanted behaviours and responses.
“Our findings underscore the central role that serotonin plays in effortful cognitive processes,” she said, adding that this helps explain why medications affecting serotonin are effective for conditions like depression, anxiety, and OCD.
10.11.2024.
