Nutrition - Diets low in fruits , vegetables and omega 3 fatty acids will decrease serotonin levels. Adding poultry, eggs, salmon, soy products, dairy, nuts, seeds, pineapple, spinach and sauerkraut to your diet is a smart mental health move. These foods are essential for a positive outlook.

Concussion - Serotonin levels are disrupted when you have a traumatic brain injury. A TBI will push the nervous system out of balance. Even mild brain injuries can change the brain over time. Years after a concussion people can still notice problems with sensitivity to light and sound, fatigue, personality changes, lack of motivation, sleep issues and memory loss.

Chronic Stress - People with chronic stress feel anxious and depressed. Constantly worrying about the past or present increases the production of cortisol which decreases serotonin production. Chronic stress wreaks havoc on your mind and body. Our bodies treat the minor hassles of life as physical threats. When we constantly worry about these stressors the bodies fight-or-flight response stays turned on.

Age - Hormone levels naturally change as we age. These changes affect the function of our body and our mind. Out of balance hormones make us feel anxious, depressed and angry. The amygdala is the part of the brain which controls emotions and is affected by declining serotonin levels.

Staying inside - Sunshine and bright light is very important in the production of hormones. Sunlight enters your eyes and stimulates the retina and cues the brain to produce serotonin. Research has shown that as little as 30 minutes of light a day will boost serotonin levels.

Lack of Exercise - Motor activity increases the firing rate of serotonin neurons. This results in the increased production and release of serotonin. Studies have shown that aerobic exercise is the best to boost serotonin.

Lack of Sleep - Sleep disturbances alter Tryptophan metabolism. This leads to an accumulation of neurotoxins. Adequate sleep alleviates inflammation and clears metabolic toxins.

Genetics - Some inherited genetic disorders may affect the body’s serotonin level. The disorders can affect serotonin creation, transport or reception. You can check your genetic data with organizations such as 23 and Me or Ancestry DNA.

Low B Vitamins - Causes fatigue, numbness in hands and feet, mouth sores and low serotonin. B12 plays a key roll in synthesizing neurotransmitters. Low B vitamins have been found to play a key roll in depression.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder - The brain responds to physical and emotional (real and perceived )trauma the same. Experiencing a traumatic event can cause lifelong anxiety problems. The receptors involved in serotonin production can become disrupted due to trauma.

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