Reuptake - GCSE Psychology Definition

Reuptake is a process that happens in the brain when nerve cells, called neurons, send messages to each other. These messages are sent using special chemicals called neurotransmitters. Once a neurotransmitter has delivered its message, it doesn't just disappear; instead, the neuron that released it takes it back. This process is called reuptake as it helps to balance the supply of neurotransmitters. Understanding reuptake is important in psychology because it can affect our emotions and behaviour, and some medications, such as antidepressants, work by changing how reuptake occurs.