What neurotransmitters are implicated in generalized anxiety disorder, contributing to symptoms?

The choice identifying norepinephrine and serotonin as neurotransmitters implicated in generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is based on the roles these chemicals play in regulating mood and anxiety responses.

Norepinephrine is associated with the body's fight-or-flight response and is linked to arousal and alertness. In the context of anxiety disorders, dysregulation of norepinephrine can lead to increased anxiety and panic responses. Individuals with GAD often experience heightened levels of worry and hyperarousal, which can be related to abnormal norepinephrine levels.

Serotonin is another key neurotransmitter that has been shown to affect mood, anxiety, and overall emotional well-being. Many anxiolytic medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), function by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, thereby helping to alleviate symptoms of anxiety. The influence of serotonin on mood stabilization makes it a crucial player in anxiety disorders.

In combination, the imbalance of norepinephrine and serotonin is believed to contribute significantly to the development and persistence of generalized anxiety disorder, affecting both the physiological and psychological symptoms experienced by individuals.