The True Post (Web News) We generally believe that our feelings and moods are within our own control, but modern science challenges this idea.
Scientists say that the human body produces more than 50 hormones that not only control physical functions but also have a significant impact on our emotions, thoughts, mental state, energy, and behavior. As research progresses, it is becoming clear that the relationship between hormones and the brain is a fundamental factor in emotional and mental health.
Hormones are actually chemical signals that are released from glands and reach different parts of the body through the blood and connect with specific cells to give them a command — just like a message sent on a phone reaches a specific person. For example, **insulin** tells cells to absorb glucose from the blood and convert it into energy or stored fuel.
According to psychologists, hormones and brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) are in constant communication with each other, which is why if the balance of hormones is disturbed, severe mood swings, depression, anxiety, anger, irritability, or emotional exhaustion can occur. This is why hormonal research has become particularly important in modern treatment of mental illnesses today.
Hormones and emotions in women
According to research, the rate of depression in women after puberty increases twice as much as in men, and this difference persists throughout life. The main reason for this is considered to be the fluctuations in **reproductive hormones** (such as estrogen and progesterone). Before menstruation, women often feel irritable, tired, sad or anxious, because estrogen and progesterone levels start to decrease during this time. In some women, this condition becomes severe and takes the form of **PMDD** (premenstrual dysphoric disorder), which can include mood swings and even suicidal thoughts.
During pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause, there are also rapid changes in hormones, due to which many women become depressed. Immediate or long-term depression has been observed in about 13 percent of women after childbirth.
Men and hormonal changes
Testosterone gradually decreases in men with age. If this decrease is greater than normal, it can affect mood, energy, confidence, and emotional balance. Research shows that a decrease in testosterone increases depression and apathy in some men.
Cortisol: The stress hormone
When a person is under constant mental stress, the body releases a hormone called **cortisol**, which temporarily keeps the body alert, but if it remains high for a long time, it damages brain cells, weakens memory, and has a negative effect on sleep and mood. Due to this constant stress, parts of the brain such as the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex** can shrink, which affects memory, decision-making, and emotional control.
Oxytocin: The hormone of love and trust
On the contrary, oxytocin is the hormone that creates a sense of love, connection, empathy, and security. It is released more during motherhood, breastfeeding, or an emotional connection with someone. An increase in this hormone reduces cortisol, which is why experts also call it the “Anti-Stress Hormone”.
Thyroid Hormone and Mental State
The thyroid gland, located near the neck, produces two important hormones, T3 and T4, which regulate heart rate, energy, body temperature, and brain activity.* If these hormones are too high → anxiety, rapid heartbeat, irritability
If they are too low → fatigue, depression, lethargy, sadness That’s why doctors often first test “thyroid levels” when a patient complains of mood or stress.
Future research and treatment
Scientists are now trying to figure out how to best use hormones to treat mental illnesses. Some new drugs, such as **Brexanolone** (for postpartum depression), work on hormonal mechanisms. Similarly, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), testosterone supplements, and hormonal birth control have also been found to be useful in treating mental health — but not for every patient.
The biggest question now is: **Why are some people so affected by hormonal changes, and others not at all?** If this is answered, mental health treatment can be more effective and personalized.
