There isn't one single hormone solely responsible for sadness. Sadness is a complex emotion influenced by multiple neurochemicals and hormonal shifts. However, several hormones and neurotransmitters are strongly associated with mood regulation and are implicated in feelings of sadness.
Key Players in Sadness
- Serotonin: Often referred to as the "happy neurotransmitter," low levels of serotonin are linked to depression and sadness. Source: Happy or SAD: The chemistry behind depression
- Dopamine: This neurotransmitter plays a crucial role in reward and pleasure. Low dopamine levels can contribute to feelings of sadness and lack of motivation. Source: Which hormone is responsible for sadness? - Quora
- Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH): This hormone is released in response to stress, and prolonged or excessive CRH release can be associated with depressive symptoms and sadness. Source: PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF DEPRESSION: DO WE HAVE ANY SOLID ...
- Prolactin: While not directly causing sadness, prolactin is released during stress, including emotional distress, and may contribute to tearfulness associated with sadness. Source: The Prolactin Theory of Sad-Music Enjoyment is Wrong. | Empirical ... and Source: Why We Cry
- Oxytocin: Although often associated with bonding and positive emotions, oxytocin is also released in response to stress and sadness, potentially playing a role in social bonding during difficult times. Source: Why Sad Songs Make You Feel Good
It's important to understand that these hormones and neurotransmitters interact in complex ways. The experience of sadness is not solely determined by any single hormone but rather a complex interplay of various biological, psychological, and environmental factors.
