Dopamine PAK

Dopamine is one of the excitatory, feel good neurotransmitters called catecholamines. Dopamine regulates short-term activities, such as bursts of intense concentration, feelings of euphoria, and behavior which must shift rapidly to accommodate changing circumstances. Stressful situations cause our brains to release catecholamines. When were in the midst of a stressful period in a relationship, for instance, when we are stressed by our jobs, when were suffering from an infection, or a stress to our immune system, we may need more of the catecholamines to retain our focus and keep going.

The resulting increase in the need to overuse these substances can eventually deplete our bodies and brains of reserves of key nutrients which are required to replenish them. This in turn can limit our ability to maintain dopamine in adequate amounts, even after the period of stress has passed, causing us to feel tired and unmotivated, have difficulty concentrating, and have trouble experiencing pleasure. Many people turn to stimulants, such as cocaine or amphetamines, to help them cope with catecholamine depletion. Is/was your problem caused by a catecholamine deficiency?