Benefiting at work from Brain Based Insights

Last in this serotonin series I wanted to touch on common effects of serotonin on focus, attention, and depression, and suggest where more help is available.

Attention span difficulties may or may not be attributed to what you consume, and professionals in this field can help you further if you struggle with too much or too little serotonin. There are many things you can do to help balance your serotonin levels… as we’ve discussed in this series. The first thing you’ll want to look for, when it comes to serotonin, is balance.  Many busy young workers, for instance, go for long periods of time without eating. This certainly can affect focus and concentration.

The human brains need glucose, and if glucose is denied through lack of food, or through foods with too much sugar, say, our bodies have to work harder to break down stored carbohydrates for glucose that'll be used to feed our brain and central nervous system.

That's why experts tell us to balance serotonin by eating about every four hours or so. Some workers carry snacks, especially if they’re busy and short on time.  Easy snack ideas include fruit, low-fat granola bars, nuts, and low-fat crackers. These will also help you to avoid hitting the vending machines.

Since experts tell us that some cases of depression are influenced by reduced quantities or activity of serotonin in the brain. Certain medications, selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors or SSRIs  work to balance serotonin levels in the brain.

While some people, may find SSRIs may be helpful… for others solutions might be more involved than unbalanced serotonin levels alone. A medical professional can help determine the best course of action. If you have depression, make an appointment to talk with a therapist at Counseling and Psychological Services in your area. You can usually obtain a referral to a psychiatrist, counselor, psychologist, social worker, or other mental health professional through your primary health care provider, or from the American Psychiatric Association, the American Psychological Association, or the National Association of Social Workers. The brain is important at work and much more  can be done to keep it fit than some people realize. What do you think?