Posted by linkadge on June 11, 2006, at 18:15:58
In reply to Linkadge-Counterargument regarding Reward Pathways, posted by PsychoPharmaFiender on June 11, 2006, at 16:43:55
>If the brain is so good at maintaining >homeostasis (specifically in the nucleus >accumbens) then everyone in the world would >have problems regarding anhedonia and >depression.
A properly working brain is very good at regulating the NAA. If it is working abnormally, producing prolonged periods of depression, or mania, one can run into problems. There is a difference between normal happiness, and euphoria. Normal happiness is sustainable wherase euphoria is not.
I'm not trying to be an appolgist for mental suffering or pain, in any way, I'm just suggesting that if you're looking to find an abnormal sence of wellbeing then you might run into problems down the road.
>The fact of the matter is that people with >depression cant maintain homeostasis in the >brain because they get depressed alot. >Therefore, they are unable to maintain >homeostasis. Meanwhile, people that are always >happy are the opposite in my opinions, their >brains are able to "bring them down, or >homeostasis".
It is hard to find anyone who lives in a perpetual state of euphora. While there are some people who appear to be this way, rigerous investiagions usually reveal that the story runs somewhat deeper.
>Sometimes Im bad at getting my point across but >I hope you get the jist of it. I believe the >endorphin system is much more involved then you >are letting on. I can specifically cite an >example regarding myself. I specifically >remember about 6 years ago taking a hike with >some friends and we got lost and we ended up >having to walk a ridiculous amount in order to >get back on track, something like 30 miles on .
>all kinds of twists and hills. Anyways, after I >got back that night I remember having the most >amazing feeling Ive ever felt, I couldnt stop >smiling all night, I felt completely free of >depression. So, I think I had runners high from >endorphins.People can become tollerant to the runner high. I don't know how common it is though, exercise addiction is a real entity, I am addicted to exercise.
The neuculeus accumbens has a good memory. We remember these mountaintop experiences even more than we remember what we had for breakfast. It is usually what perpetuates the search for more.
>And yes, homeostasis brought me back to earth >the next day. But I will continue to seek >remission through meds until I find it. >Lamictal and Nardil is my latest attempt.
I hope you do find remission from depression.
Linkadge
poster:linkadge
thread:655310
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20060610/msgs/655639.html