Neurotransmitters
Natural chemicals in the brain that transmit messages from cell to cell are called neurotransmitters. They are responsible for the feelings, emotions, actions, and behaviors an individual exhibits. Neurotransmitters are also responsible for actions of a person such as the movement of muscles, waking up, memories, motor skills, and reflexes.
Substances that act as neurotransmitters are classified into 3 major groups. Amino acids contain amine and carboxyl. Animo acid is the basic component of proteins. Each person has 20 types of amino acids in their genetic code. Acetylcholine was the first neurotransmitter to be identified. It is active in the central nervous system. Monoamines derive from amino acids that have joined with other cells to create a unique neurotransmitter.
It is believed that defects in a person’s neurotransmitters results in borderline personality disorder and other mental health issues. This is because the transmitters are not correct; therefore the brain can’t encode the message from them properly. This is widely debated. From a medical standpoint, some believe that mental health issues can be resolved once science develops a way to go in and change the way a person’s information is transmitted. They also believe that this is exactly what medications for bipolar and personality disorder do on a temporary basis, it works as long as the person’s body does not build up a tolerance to the drug.
The mental health profession believes such issues are often hereditary, and need to be treated with medication and counseling. However, if it is a hereditary issue, isn’t it possible that the neurotransmitters not working properly is also a hereditary issue and therefore they really are linked? After all they are part of our genetic code, part of which comes from each of our parents!
