Did you know our brain has what are usually called our “happy brain chemicals”? These four happy chemicals are dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins. I will leave the scientific explanations of how these hormones work to the scientists and researchers who can depict it much better than I can. However, I can share what these hormones do for us and how we can activate them. While these hormones are natural and can activate themselves, sometimes we need to do something to give them a little boost and promote our happiness and well-being.
Dopamine is our “feel-good” hormone; the reward chemical is what some people call it. It helps our body and brain produce feelings of pleasure, satisfaction, and motivation. We can activate this hormone by engaging in a new hobby such as reading, crocheting, hiking, painting, etc. You can also complete a task from your to-do list since this chemical is all about rewarding yourself and celebrating your success. Making sure you celebrate your small wins is an important thing for you and helps boost your dopamine!
Serotonin is our mood stabilizer. It helps us create long-lasting happiness, improves our well-being, and regulates our emotions. To enhance serotonin in your body, you can exercise by dancing, walking, weight-lifting, etc. Nature walks are a great way to boost serotonin as not only does movement help with it, but so does sunlight! Practicing gratitude is another great habit that helps increase serotonin as you focus on the positive things and become more appreciative of what you have or what is around you.
Oxytocin is the love hormone. This hormone allows you to feel loved and to be able to love yourself and others. It increases trust, improves social relationships, and helps you bond with others. Oxytocin is energized by physical affection whether that be platonic, romantic, or even with an animal. Petting a dog or cat is a great way to boost your oxytocin and happiness. Some other ways to activate this hormone are by hugging a loved one, holding hands with someone, giving out compliments, and socializing with people who make you feel good.
Lastly, endorphins are our painkiller hormone. It helps us mask pain and improves our well-being and mood. This can be activated by laughing which you can do by watching a funny TV show or movie or spending time with friends who make you smile and laugh. A few other ways to boost your endorphins are by eating dark chocolate, listening to happy music, exercising, or making art.
If you are struggling with any mood or mental health issues and would like to talk to a professional counselor, please contact Olive Branch Counseling Associates, Inc. at 708-633-8000. We are located at 6819 16th Street in Tinley Park, Illinois 60477. We would be happy to be of service.
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Written By: Emme D.
Undergrad Intern 2024
CounselingMatters.live 
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