Final answer:
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are drugs that increase serotonin levels in the brain, helping to improve mood and control impulsivity. They are commonly used to treat depression and other mood disorders.
Step-by-step explanation:
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a class of drugs commonly used to treat depression and other mood disorders. They work by blocking the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, which increases the levels of serotonin available to nerve cells. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in mood regulation, and low levels of serotonin have been linked to depression and impulsivity.
By inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, SSRIs help to improve mood and control impulsivity in individuals with depression and other conditions. For example, individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) often experience intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, which can be alleviated by increasing serotonin levels in the brain through the use of SSRIs.
Overall, SSRIs help to balance serotonin levels in the brain, which can lead to improved impulse control and mood stability.