Endorphins are neurotransmitters your body releases in response to pain and stress.
This process also increases dopamine levels.Dopamineis the neurotransmitter associated with reward and pleasure responses.
How Long Do Endorphins Last?
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The timeframe depends on many factors, and only you know when the endorphin rush is over.
One small study found that 22 participants experienced endorphin-related euphoric feelings after one hour of moderate-intensity exercise.
This is the case with alcohol and opioid medications.
Long-term use of these medications, however, can cause levels to decrease as time goes on.
There is a high potential for heightened sensitivity to pain as a result.
Treatment
Antidepressants may offer relief if youre struggling with endorphin deficiency.
Endorphins are in general associated with feelings of pleasure, euphoria, excitement, and well-being.
Reduce Stress and Anxiety
Healthy levels of endorphins work to reduce stress and anxiety.
Regulate Other Hormones
Endorphins also influence other hormones likeoxytocin, also known as the love hormone.
Lower Pain
Endorphins are the body’s naturally produced pain relievers.
Boost Self-Esteem
When endorphins are released, we feel good about ourselves.
They promote emotions of happiness and well-being, which help boost confidence in the moment and the future.
May Help Mental Disorders
Endorphins can also potentially help with other mental disorders likeschizophrenia.
Exercise
A 2016 study measured endorphins in 30 moderately depressed males who participated in an exercise program.
The effects may be even better if you exercise with others.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is one way to release endorphins with pressure points.
A professional inserts extremely fine needles into pressure points to release endorphins.
This is known asacupressure.
Ultraviolet Light
Ultraviolet light stimulates the release of endorphins, creating a pleasurable sense of relaxation.
Endorphins vs. Dopamine
Endorphins are associated with making you happy, but so is dopamine.
They can also alleviate the feeling of pain and anxiety or stress.
Endorphins may help with some mental disorders like schizophrenia.
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