Neurotransmitter – Self Test

Neurotransmitter Related Symptoms Self-Assessment

Are you using…?

• Antidepressants
• Medications
• Hormone replacement
• Tobacco
• Alcohol

General Symptoms
Do you have…?

DOPAMINE Very low levels of Dopamine in the motor areas of the brain are known to produce Parkinson’s Disease with symptoms such as:

SEROTONIN

As Serotonin levels continue to drop, we become more depressed. At this point, moderately low or “two quarts” low, major changes occur in those bodily functions regulated by Serotonin. When Serotonin is moderately low, we have the following symptoms and behaviors

Do you have…?

• Chronic fatigue. Despite sleeping extra hours and naps, we remain tired. There is a sense of being “worn out”.
• Sleep disturbance, typically we can’t go to sleep at night as our mind/thought is racing. Patients describe this, as “My mind won’t shut up!” Early-morning awakening is also common, typically at 4:00 am, at which point returning to sleep is difficult, again due to the racing thoughts
• Appetite disturbance is present, usually in two types. We experience a loss of appetite and subsequent weight loss or a craving for sweets and carbohydrates when the brain is trying to make more Serotonin
• Total loss of sexual interest is present. In fact, there is loss of interest in everything, including those activities and interests that have been enjoyed in the past
• Social withdrawal is common – not answering the phone, rarely leaving the house/apartment, we stop calling friends and family, and we withdraw from social events.
• Emotional sadness and frequent crying spells are common.
• Self-esteem and self-confidence are low.
• Body sensations, due to Serotonin’s role as a body regulator, include hot flushes and temperature changes, headaches, and stomach distress.
• Loss of personality – a sense that our sense of humor has left and our personality has changed.
• We begin to take everything very personally. Comments,glances, and situations are viewed personally and negatively. If someone speaks to you, it irritatesyou. If they don’t speak, you become angry and feel ignored.
• Your family will have the sense that you have “faded away”. You talk less, smile less, and sit for hours without noticing anyone.
• Your behavior becomes odd. Family members may find you sitting in the dark in the kitchen at odd times, like at 3:00 am in the morning.

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This survey is in no way attempting to diagnose or treat physical health conditions.