Signs of serotonin deficiency you shouldn't ignore
What's the story
Serotonin is an important chemical in our bodies that affects how we behave, feel, move, and learn. When serotonin levels are too low, it can make our nerve signals weaker. One common sign is feeling depressed, but it can also cause many other problems. Here are five signs to look out for that could indicate low serotonin levels.
Sleeplessness
Insomnia, daytime fatigue, difficulty waking up
Serotonin, together with another neurotransmitter dopamine, has a significant impact on the quality and duration of your sleep. Serotonin, in particular, is crucial for the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating your sleep-wake cycle. If you find yourself struggling to sleep at night, it may be because your brain is lacking sufficient levels of serotonin.
ADHD
Experiencing hyperactivity
Excessively low serotonin can disrupt concentration and behavior, causing challenges in daily life that may require attention and support. It can lead to symptoms of attention deficit or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADD/ADHD). These symptoms include difficulty focusing, constant restlessness, chronic boredom, and an inability to stay still. If you are unfamiliar with ADHD, here is everything you need to know.
Mood swings
Fluctuating moods, experiencing depression or anxiety
Low serotonin levels can disrupt the functioning of the brain that regulates emotions. This imbalance can lead to unpredictable shifts in mood and make a person more susceptible to experiencing periods of sadness, anxiety, or heightened stress. Various research has found that low levels of this neurotransmitter can lead to mood disorders such as major depression, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and postpartum depression.
Memory
Problems with memory or difficulties in learning
Serotonin is not just a mood regulator but also plays a role in memory and learning. If you find yourself struggling with memory or learning, it could be a sign of low serotonin levels. In addition, symptoms like sleep deprivation and depression, which are linked to serotonin deficiency, can make it more challenging to concentrate and absorb new information.
Low confidence
Low confidence, imposter syndrome, self-doubt
When serotonin levels are low, it can make us feel down about ourselves, impacting our self-esteem, confidence, and overall sense of purpose. This can manifest as imposter syndrome, a persistent fear of being exposed as fraud, even when you have evidence to prove your competence. Having enough serotonin is important for boosting self-esteem and feeling more confident and satisfied with who you are.