dopamine hypothesis

The dopamine hypothesis suggests that an imbalance of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain is linked to certain mental health disorders, particularly schizophrenia. It proposes that excessive dopamine activity may contribute to symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions, while a deficiency might relate to other issues like apathy or lack of motivation. This theory helps to explain why certain medications that reduce dopamine activity can alleviate symptoms of these disorders. Essentially, it highlights the role of dopamine in regulating mood, perception, and cognition, illustrating its importance in mental health.