THE CHEMISTRY OF LOVE AND LONGING: UNDERSTANDING THE ROLE OF DOPAMINE AND CORTISOL ON WELL-BEING

THE CHEMISTRY OF LOVE AND LONGING: UNDERSTANDING THE ROLE OF DOPAMINE AND CORTISOL ON WELL-BEING


Introduction

Love and sadness of longing for someone are two of the most powerful human emotions, capable of profoundly impacting our lives and overall well-being. The feeling of being in love is often associated with a "high" due to the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure and reward. Conversely, sadness, like that experienced during a breakup or loss, can trigger the release of cortisol, a stress hormone. Metaphorically, being in love and sadness of longing can be likened to a constant drip of dopamine and cortisol, respectively, influencing our emotional state and well-being.


Dopamine and Love

In the early stages of love, dopamine levels surge, creating feelings of euphoria, excitement, and motivation. This neurotransmitter strengthens the reward system in the brain, making the loved one and associated activities feel incredibly pleasurable. According to Vanderbilt University, dopamine plays a key role in motivation and reward-seeking behavior, which can potentially translate into increased productivity and ambition in other areas of life [1].


Cortisol and Longing

When a relationship ends or a loved one is lost, the body experiences a stress response, leading to a rise in cortisol levels. Cortisol is associated with feelings of sadness, anxiety, and stress. Prolonged exposure to cortisol can have a demotivating effect, leading to decreased energy, focus, and overall productivity, as noted by the National Fund for Workforce Solutions [2].


The "Drip" Metaphor

While the term "drip" might not be entirely accurate scientifically, it does capture the sustained nature of both dopamine release in love and cortisol release in sadness of longing. In love, dopamine is constantly being released, creating a sense of ongoing pleasure. After a breakup or loss, cortisol levels may remain elevated for an extended period, leading to persistent feelings of sadness.

 

Beyond dopamine and cortisol

It's important to note that other neurotransmitters and hormones play a role in both love and sadness of longing. For example, oxytocin, also known as the "love hormone," is released during intimate moments and strengthens bonds. In sadness, other stress hormones like adrenaline and norepinephrine may also be involved.


The Impact on Success and Well-being

While being in love can contribute to motivation and goal-oriented behavior, and sadness of longing can have a demotivating effect, individual experiences and emotional regulation skills play a crucial role in determining success and well-being. Developing emotional intelligence, including the ability to understand and manage one's own emotions and the emotions of others, can be a key factor in navigating both positive and negative life events and achieving personal and professional goals, according to ChenMed [3].


Conclusion

love and sadness of longing for someone have complex effects on our brains and bodies, influenced by a range of neurotransmitters and hormones, including dopamine, cortisol, oxytocin, adrenaline, and norepinephrine. While dopamine and positive emotions can contribute to motivation and goal-oriented behavior, individual experiences and emotional regulation skills are crucial factors in determining success and well-being.


References

[1] Vanderbilt University. (n.d.). Dopamine and Reward.
[2] National Fund for Workforce Solutions. (n.d.). Managing Stress and Negative Emotions.
[3] ChenMed. (n.d.). Emotional Intelligence and Well-being.



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