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Brain chemistry – are you out of balance?

There are two main groups of chemicals that influence (and are influenced by) how we feel.

Serotonin enables us to access states of contentment and wellbeing, and is known as a calming mood chemical. Serotonin imbalances have been associated with depression, anxiety, tearfulness, anger, irritability, eating disorders, low frustration tolerance, rejection sensitivity, addictions, feeling bullied, concentration/memory problems and suicidal feelings. Women are more likely to experience serotonin imbalance, as males make approximately 50% more serotonin.

Our programs help people to promote serotonin release through psychological techniques, food and beverage choice, supplementation (e.g. vitamins, herbs, nutrients), music, specific physical exercise, leisure activities, work-based strategies and relationship behaviours.

The catecholamine group of brain chemicals (dopamine, adrenalin and noradrenalin) help us access states of energy and focus, and are known as activating mood chemicals. Imbalances will affect energy levels, attention span, concentration, sensitivity to boredom, the ability to follow through on tasks and tendency towards risk, addiction and thrill-seeking. Some studies have suggested that males are more likely to have dopamine imbalances due to increased dopamine receptors in the brain.

Our programs can help people boost activating chemicals through supplementation, psychological skills, music, food/beverage choice, behavioural strategies, exercise/sport choice, leisure choices and lifestyle strategies.