How Do Endorphins Relieve Anxiety
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Function
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Endorphins (sometimes called mu-opioids) are neurochemicals that seem to be linked to levels of the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine in the body. Acting like a painkiller three times more powerful than morphine, endorphins regulate the production and reception of serotonin and dopamine to decrease nerve impulses that cause anxiety and those that register physical pain. Because serotonin and dopamine have other functions, the exact interaction between them and endorphins is not known. Endorphins also seem to play a part in our reaction to light and darkness. The analgesic properties of endorphins last up to 30 hours.
Causes
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In people in good physical health and without depression, endorphins are produced by a wide variety of events and substances. Activities like strenuous exercise, laughing, crying, yawning, orgasm, exposure to bright light and massage can trigger the release of endorphins. Initial research also suggests that certain sounds, such as drumming, may cause endorphin levels to rise. Anecdotal evidence suggests that aspartame (Nutrasweet) may increase endorphin release. Panic and trauma may maintain endorphin levels in the body, despite a perception that the euphoria is gone.
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Effects
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Euphoria or satisfied well being are traditionally associated with an endorphin rush. The analgesic property may decrease or completely mask feelings of physical pain. In general, endorphins lower levels of serotonin and increase dopamine levels.
Depression
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Studies of people with clinical depression suggest that there is a physical problem with endorphin reception. Many depressed people have elevated levels of endorphins, but do not feel the effects, because the endorphins are free floating. They are not absorbed by receptors in the brain and spinal cord. In the case of anxiety with depression, an increase in endorphins will not necessarily provide relief from anxiety.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Light therapy for SAD to release endorphins, photo from Verilux, Inc.
