Serotonin
A substance involved in mood, sleep and digestion — but the »too little serotonin« explanation is far too simple.
What we know
Serotonin is involved in numerous processes, and most of it is in the gut. The theory that depression is caused by a shortage of it isn’t supported by the research; and the fact that medication works doesn’t mean the cause is a chemical deficit.
Why it matters
Because an over-simple explanation leads to the belief that there is only one route. In depression both psychotherapy and medical treatment have their place, often together.
See also
Nightmares
Dreams with intense fear that wake you and stay vivid after waking.
The four horsemen
Four ways of communicating which, in Gottman's research, most strongly predict a relationship breaking down: criticism, contempt, defensiveness and stonewalling.
Pregnancy loss
A loss that often goes unnoticed by those around you, and is therefore lonelier still.
