GUEST BLOG No. FIVE

Neurotransmitter imbalance may involve excessive production or the deficit of certain neurotransmitters. Neurons sensitive to a particular neurotransmitter tend to be in close proximity and form neuropathways or chemical circuits. One such neurotransmitter, glutamate, which is thought to be excitatory, is the most abundant in the brain; however, imbalances may lead to extremes in behavior. The science of behavior involves neuropathways that connect complicated behavior such as riding a bike or the skills learned through the repetition of acquiring new abilities. Unfortunately, extremes in socially unacceptable behavior damaging to self, others or relationships also form neuropathways and often become an automatic response during a glutamate imbalance. Those automatic responses occur even after normal neurotransmitter function returns because they have become a learned response or neuropathway. Behavior change or learning new healthier responses to daily events and interactions also build new neuropathways. When the connections are strengthened with repetition, unhealthy automatic reactions are replaced by new normal behavior that results in healthier interactions with self and others. However, it is recommended to seek the help of a psychologist who is trained in behavioral change or cognitive behavioral therapy. Each brain is different and behavioral change does not happen overnight. It takes repetition and possibly three to six months of replacing unhealthy responses with positive, healthy, and socially acceptable behavior. As Dr. G. teaches us, there are times that the brain may need pharmacological intervention to find a consistent neurotransmitter balance. During glutamate imbalances, it may be challenging to develop those positive neural pathways for cognitive behavior change without medical treatment to reduce the over-abundance of the glutamate excitatory neurotransmitter. Stay safe- Dr. Stewart Debra Stewart Psy.D Doctor of Organizational Psychology /Specialization: Health and Wellness PsyD,  MBA, MATLT, BS, ACC Pre-Approved MEPAP Instructor Montessori Home Engagement Licensed Instructor Picture Yourself Stronger LLC Author: Finding the Good in the Workplace Bully Recent Research: Caregiver Attitudes and Beliefs about Pain Medication Administration Learning Styles Inventory for Persons with Dementia