Neurons and Neurotransmitters

The brain is often described as an intricate electrical system, a supercomputer. It is compiled of several different parts, including neurons and neurotransmitters.¹

Neurons, also known as nerve cells, are the basic building blocks of the brain. These cells form circuits that transmit important information via electro-chemical impulses that travel throughout the brain and nervous system.²

Neurons are able to communicate through contact points called synapses. These synapses exist as small gaps found between neurons. The communications are carried by neurotransmitters that act as the chemical messengers of the brain.³

Neurotransmitters are released from one neuron to attach to another. Many different types of neurotransmitters exist, and they vary depending on the type of receptor site. There are three neurotransmitters that figure prominently in the developmental changes of adolescence:

• Dopamine: This neurotransmitter affects brain processes that control movement, emotional response and the ability to experience pleasure and pain. Dopamine levels decrease during adolescence resulting in mood changes and difficulty with emotional control.
• Serotonin: This neurotransmitter plays a role in mood fluctuations, anxiety, impulse control and arousal levels. Serotonin levels decrease during adolescence. This is decline is associated with decreased impulse control.
• Melatonin: This neurotransmitter regulates circadian rhythms and the sleep-wake cycle. During adolescence the body’s daily production of melatonin shifts resulting a greater need for sleep.⁴

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