What Are the Causes of Elevated Dopamine?
Dopamine, a neurotransmitter, transmits signals from neurons to neurons, though few neurons make dopamine. It is when these dopamine neurons are activated that they release the dopamine. There are two parts of the brain that are involved, the substantia nigra and the ventral tegmental area, or VTA. The VTA dopamine neurons are connected with unexpected rewards. Some findings have also suggested that dopamine is released when there is relief from an aversive event, which in itself would be a reward. According to the “Psychology Today” website, dopamine is associated with initiating muscle movement, euphoria, sleeplessness, loss of appetite and motivation. It is also noted to take part in attention and the ability to concentrate.
