Which neurotransmitter is thought to be most involved with anxiety disorders?

Serotonin is often considered the neurotransmitter that plays a key role in mood regulation and is implicated in anxiety disorders. Research indicates that abnormalities in serotonin levels and functioning can contribute to the development of anxiety. Many medications used to treat anxiety, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), work by increasing the availability of serotonin in the brain, which can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety.

While dopamine, norepinephrine, and GABA are indeed involved in the regulation of mood and anxiety, serotonin’s influence is particularly prominent in the context of anxiety disorders. Dopamine is more closely associated with the reward system and motivation, while norepinephrine is linked to the body's stress response. GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter, can help reduce anxiety, but serotonin's broader impact on mood and behavioral regulation makes it central in the study and treatment of anxiety disorders. Understanding the role of serotonin aids in recognizing how pharmacological interventions can effectively target anxiety symptoms.