Final answer:
Most medications used for the treatment of mental illness affect the neurotransmitters in the synapse, which is the gap between neurons where neurotransmitters are released and bind to receptors, influencing nerve impulse transmission and mental states.
Step-by-step explanation:
Most medications used for treatment of mental illness influence the neurotransmitters in the synapse.
Neurotransmission is the process wherein neurotransmitters are released by the axon terminal of a neuron and bind to receptors on the dendrites of another neuron across a gap called the synaptic cleft. These neurotransmitters may either excite or inhibit the postsynaptic neuron, thus playing a vital role in transmitting nerve impulses and affecting mental states. Psychotropic medications aim to restore the balance of neurotransmitters, thereby improving symptoms associated with mental disorders. Chemicals such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) block the reuptake of serotonin, increasing its level in the synapse and alleviating conditions like depression.