Brain Chemistry

CORTISOL
Increases anxiety, fear, stress
High levels associated with unhappiness

DOPAMINE
Increases pleasure associated with craving (the "go-get-it" neurotransmitter)

SEROTONIN
Increases sense of well-being, reduces fear and anxiety
Subnormal levels associated with depression

OXYTOCIN
Increases empathy, love, bonding

PROLACTIN
Decreases craving, increases sleepiness (the "whoa!" neurotransmitter)