João just received the news on his cell phone that he passed the university entrance exam, a dream he had cherished since childhood. He locked himself in the school bathroom to check the result, wanting a moment of privacy before sharing what could be a turning point in his life.
Moments before opening the app, João felt a mix of anxiety and anticipation. His hands were sweaty and butterflies in his stomach indicated that his body was on high alert. Serotonin levels were low, which contributed to his restlessness, while norepinephrine, released in response to stress, kept his body ready for any outcome. Cortisol, the main stress hormone, was high, racing his thoughts and increasing physical tension. Despite the anxiety, there was a moderate release of dopamine, enough to sustain hope without leading to euphoria.
When he finally saw the approval message, an intense wave of relief and happiness enveloped him. At that moment, his brain released a significant amount of dopamine, providing a feeling of pleasure and satisfaction. Glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter, intensified this feeling, leaving John euphoric. The endorphins, released shortly after, helped to soften the excitement, bringing a feeling of well-being and relief.
John immediately shared the news with his parents and close friends, feeling a warm, comforting feeling in his chest. This feeling was generated by oxytocin, the hormone of bonding and affection, which further strengthened the joy he already felt.
As time passed, the initial euphoria began to subside. GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter, began to act, reducing neuronal excitation and promoting relaxation. Serotonin, now at high levels due to the happiness of the achievement, helped to stabilize his mood, maintaining a lasting sense of well-being. Norepinephrine, which had been high before, now stabilized, keeping John alert, but without the initial anxiety.
In addition to these major neurotransmitters, others may have played important roles. Acetylcholine, for example, probably helped consolidate the memory of this significant moment. Neuropeptides such as Neuropeptide Y (NPY) may have contributed to the feeling of reward and pleasure. Cholecystokinin (CCK) may have influenced the feeling of satiety or hunger, although it was inhibited by dopamine. Dynorphin, an endogenous opioid, may have collaborated with endorphins to promote relaxation, while substance P, associated with sensory perception, may have intensified the excitement and the feeling of “butterflies in the stomach” before the result.
