serotonin hypothesis

The serotonin hypothesis suggests that levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation, are linked to depression. It proposes that lower serotonin activity or availability may contribute to feelings of sadness or hopelessness. Many antidepressant medications, like SSRIs, work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain to help improve mood. However, this hypothesis is a simplified view of depression's complexity, as multiple factors—including genetics, environment, and other brain chemicals—also play roles. Overall, serotonin is seen as an important piece of the puzzle in understanding and treating depression.