Endorphins In Simple Language

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Dr. Nancy Qusba Emergency Physician Downers Grove, IL

Dr. Nancy Qusba M.D. is a top Emergency Physician in Downers Grove, IL. With a passion for the field and an unwavering commitment to their specialty, Dr. Nancy Qusba M.D. is an expert in changing the lives of their patients for the better. Through their designated cause and expertise in the field, Dr. Nancy Qusba M.D. is... more

Endorphins are a group of hormones secreted within the brain and the nervous system that make their way throughout the body causing an analgesic effect by blocking pain. It's also responsible for our emotional feelings, pleasure, comfort, and tranquilizing effects on the body.

Factors That Trigger The Endorphin Release

1. Exercise - The "runner's high" really exists, but you'll need to work for it. 

2. Heavy weight lifting or intense aerobic activity increases the release of endorphins that can help to reduce stress and may cause a euphoric feeling.

3. Meditation - Controlled breathing exercises and yoga are believed to trigger endorphins.

4. Childbirth - Giving birth to a child is both painful and stressful, it helps to release endorphins to make it pleasurable.

5. Alcohol - Light to moderate drinking stimulates endorphins, but heavy drinking does the reverse.

6. Chili peppers - Capsaicin, which puts the burn in chilies, also triggers the body to release some fire-quenching endorphins.

7. Bodywork - Both acupuncture and massage therapy trigger your inner comfort feeling.

8. Ultraviolet light - That explains why using a tanning booth is so relaxing.

  • Food and drink 
  • Laughter
  • Music
  • Sunlight
  • Massage
  • Baths
  • Sex

Lack Of Endorphins May Be Responsible For:

Certain forms of mental illness such as:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Moodiness
  • Aches and pains
  • Addiction 
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Impulsive behavior
Clinical depression or sudden shifts in emotions. Some people who engage in self-harming behaviors may do so in part to feel feelings of euphoria.

Excessive Endorphins May Also Be Responsible For:
1. Heightened states of rage or anxiety. 
2. You could be flooded with "fight-or-flight" hormones at the slightest hint of trouble or worry.
There are numerous antidepressant medications, which are specifically designed to mimic the effects of endorphins in the brain to make a depressed person feel better or cope with stressful situations.