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Serotonin - GCSE Psychology Definition

Reviewed by: Lucy Vinson

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Serotonin is a chemical in the brain that helps control many important functions such as mood, sleep, and appetite. It acts as a messenger, sending signals between nerve cells. When serotonin levels are balanced, we tend to feel happy and calm. However, if the levels are too low, it could lead to feelings of sadness or anxiety. Understanding serotonin is important in psychology because it helps explain certain behaviours and mental health conditions, such as depression, where serotonin levels may be off balance.

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Lucy Vinson

Reviewer: Lucy Vinson

Expertise: Psychology Content Creator

Lucy has been a part of Save My Exams since 2024 and is responsible for all things Psychology & Social Science in her role as Subject Lead. Prior to this, Lucy taught for 5 years, including Computing (KS3), Geography (KS3 & GCSE) and Psychology A Level as a Subject Lead for 4 years. She loves teaching research methods and psychopathology. Outside of the classroom, she has provided pastoral support for hundreds of boarding students over a four year period as a boarding house tutor.

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