15 Common Causes of Low Serotonin

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that almost everyone has heard of. This neurotransmitter plays an important role in many core physical processes. This includes regulating appetite, sleep, and aggression. In addition, serotonin plays a role in a person’s mood, fear, anxiety, and overall sense of well-being. If a person has an imbalance of serotonin, it can cause depression. This is particularly present when the serotonin balances are related to dopamine and norepinephrine. Antidepressants are often used to block the reuptake back into the serotonin neurons and are common among almost every type of these classes of medication that are prescribed. A deficiency of serotonin is one of the most common reasons for mood issues. In the United States it is felt that this is an epidemic as more and more people are finding they have insufficient serotonin levels. Here are 15 of the most common causes of low serotonin levels. 

1. Unknown

Professionals in healthcare do not fully understand why there are some people who have lower levels of serotonin or why serotonin deficiency develops. There are many reasons that are felt to lead to lower amounts of serotonin. However, it cannot often be pinpointed to one particular thing. A person that is suffering from serotonin deficiency will likely suffer from mood swings, including bouts of depression and anxiety. This can cause issues with relationships and with life in general. A person who has low levels of serotonin may not be able to function properly or will simply not feel happy most of the time. Seeking out therapy for these mood swings is important. A doctor will likely prescribe an antidepressant to help a person suffering from anxiety or depression as a result of low levels of serotonin. Finding the exact cause can be tricky, but proper medication and therapy can help.