Slow down the activity of the
central nervous system by
enhancing activity of GABA
GABA release --> Quietening effect on
many of the neruons in the brain
Does this by reacting w/ GABA receptors. When GABA locks into
these receptors it opens a channel which increase the flow of
chloride ions into the neruon
Chloride ions make it harder for the neuron
to be stimulated by other neurotransmitters
--> slowing down its activity & making the
person feel more relaxed
Examples
Valium
Xanax
Anti-depressant drugs
SSRIs
Choy & Schneier (2008): SSRIs are
currently the preferred drug for treating
anxiety disorders
Increase levels of the
neurotransmitter SEROTONIN
(regulates mood & anxiety)
Higher serotonin level --> NORMALISE
the 'worry circuit'
Examples
Paxil
Prozac
Psychosurgery
Capsulotomy
Remove Capsule
Part of the limbic system
involved with emotion and
anxiety
Cingulotomy
Remove Cingulum
linked the orbitofrontal cortex
to the caudate nucleus
Deep Brain
Stimulation (DBS)
Placing wires in target areas of
the brain
Wires are connected to a battery in
the patient’s chest
Current is on, interrupts the target circuits in the brain e.g. ‘worry circuit’
Transcranial
magnetic
stimulation
Avoids destruction of
brain tissue
A large electromagnetic coil is
placed above the scalp near
the forehead
Creates painless electric currents that stimulate the
frontal cortex (a region of the brain asso w/ OCD and
mood regulation