What is Dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin?

Dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin are chemical messengers that help your brain tell your body what to do, like when you’re happy, sad, or feeling loved.

Imagine you're playing a game where every time you win, you get a sticker. That’s dopamine, it makes you feel excited and motivated. It's like the push you need to keep going, whether you're running after a ball or trying to solve a puzzle.

Think of serotonin as the cozy blanket you wrap around yourself when you’re feeling good. When you eat something delicious, laugh with friends, or even just sit quietly and feel calm, that’s serotonin working, it helps you feel balanced and content.

Oxytocin is like the warm feeling you get after a big hug from someone you love. It makes you feel connected and safe. You might get this when you're with your family, during a favorite bedtime story, or even when you pet your dog.

These chemicals are always working together, sometimes like friends playing a game, other times like a team helping each other out.