Neurotransmitters associated with psychosomatic disorders
the most important biological mechanisms that connect the central nervous system with the physiological reactions of the mind and body. They play a key role in regulating mood, emotion, cognitive function, and the physiological activity of vital organs, including the heart, digestive system, muscles, and endocrine glands. Neurotransmitters are chemical molecules secreted at synapses to transmit signals between neurons. These include serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, acetylcholine, and GABA, all of which are involved in modulating emotional and physical responses to constant stress. With prolonged exposure to stress or repressed emotions, the balance of these neurotransmitters is disrupted, which increases psychosomatic symptoms. For example, low levels of serotonin are associated with increased anxiety and depression, and also affect gastrointestinal motility and appetite, while low dopamine activity leads to burnout, decreased motivation and reduced ability to cope with stress, which increases the severity of psychosomatic symptoms. Norepinephrine, in turn, increases the fight-or-flight response, and its excess secretion leads to an increased heart rate, muscle tension, sweating, and high blood pressure – direct physical manifestations of chronic stress. Acetylcholine, associated with the sympathetic nervous system, plays a role in returning the body to a state of relaxation, regulating heart rate and digestion; Therefore, any deficiency in its activity contributes to the persistence of physical and emotional symptoms. GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter, also reduces neural hyperactivity and reduces tension and anxiety. Low levels of GABA lead to increased nervous excitability, sleep disturbances, muscle tension and gastrointestinal disorders, which exacerbate chronic psychosomatic symptoms. These interactions between neurotransmitters and chemicals demonstrate how stress not only affects the psychological state, but also directly translates into tangible physiological and physical responses.