Understanding chemicals in the body

A short explainer

💊 Understanding chemicals in the brain and body; how dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin and endorphins shape substance use — and how to hack them using every day activities.

⚡️ Dopamine
Reward Chemical

Motivation and pleasure chemical, responsible for feelings of reward, focus and excitement. It helps us chase goals and feel accomplished. Substance use artificially floods the brain with dopamine, making normal life feel dull.

✅ Set goals & achieve them
✅ Self-care & trying new experiences
✅ Listen to music
✅ Eat protein-rich foods

💖 Oxytocin
Love Hormone

The bonding hormone, released through physical touch, trust and emotional connection. Substances can replace emotional bonds, making real connection, intimacy and trust harder in recovery.

✅ Hugs & cuddling
✅ Deep conversations
✅ Help others
✅ Playing with pets

🧬 Serotonin
Mood Booster

Regulates mood, emotions and well-being. Helps with sleep, digestion, and keeping you calm and balanced. Substance use depletes serotonin; low serotonin levels contribute to depression, anxiety, and cravings — common during withdrawal and early recovery.

✅ Sun exposure
✅ Meditation, mindfulness and gratitude
✅ Long walks and social connection
✅ Healthy carbs (quinoa, oats)

💪🏻 Endorphins
Natural Painkiller

Body's natural pain relievers, released during stress or physical exertion. They create feelings of euphoria and reduce discomfort. Substances like opioids (heroin, oxycodone, codeine) mimic endorphins, making withdrawal difficult.

✅ Exercise (gym, running, dancing)
✅ Laughter & comedy
✅ Eat dark chocolate
✅ Deep breathing
✅ Listen to music