Question

For the past year, 30-year-old Cecily has experienced difficulty falling and staying asleep, and has struggled with low mood. Cecily says she's stressed and was recently diagnosed with depression. Cecily probably has a deficiency in the neurotransmitter:

a) Serotonin
b) Dopamine
c) Acetylcholine
d) GABA

Answer 1

Cecily's symptoms of difficulty sleeping and low mood alongside a depression diagnosis suggest a serotonin deficiency. Serotonin is a key neurotransmitter in mood and sleep regulation, and its deficiency could lead to depression

Step-by-step explanation:

Given that Cecily is experiencing difficulty falling and staying asleep, coupled with a low mood and a recent diagnosis of depression, it is likely that Cecily has a deficiency in the neurotransmitter serotonin. Serotonin is associated with both mood regulation and sleep, and deficiencies can lead to symptoms of depression. Medications such as antidepressants can help to bring serotonin levels back to normal, controlling the symptoms and aiding in leading a productive life.

Factors like stress can exacerbate these symptoms, creating a cycle of sleeplessness and anxiety. In cases where sleep issues are present, melatonin, an amine produced by the brain, could also be involved as it influences the sleep-wake cycle and can be affected by factors such as sunlight exposure. However, Cecily's symptoms are more closely aligned with serotonin deficiency.