Instructions

Neurotransmitters are fundamental regulators of mood, cognition, behavior, and stress response. Dysregulation within these neurochemical systems contributes to the development and expression of numerous psychiatric symptoms and disorders. Because many psychopharmacologic agents exert their therapeutic effects by modulating neurotransmitter synthesis, release, receptor activity, or reuptake. Understanding these pathways is essential for nurses involved in mental health care. A strong neurobiological foundation supports accurate assessment, enhances clinical reasoning, and promotes the delivery of safe, evidence-based, person-centered interventions.

Case Study #2: Serotonin & GABA

Nadia is a 28-year-old barista who presents with escalating anxiety, chronic worry, muscle tension, and significant sleep disturbances. She describes feeling on edge all the time, with episodes of racing thoughts and shortness of breath. She avoids social gatherings due to fear of embarrassment and has recently started missing work due to panic-like symptoms.

She reports stomach pain, decreased appetite, and difficulty falling asleep. She also describes feeling shaky inside even when sitting still. When asked about coping, Nadia says she tries deep breathing, but it doesnt work. She denies substance use but drinks large amounts of herbal teas marketed for anxiety relief.

Mental Status Findings

Appearance: Hands tremoring, avoids eye contact

Behavior: Fidgeting, hypervigilant

Mood: Nervous all the time

Thought Process: Over productive; difficult to redirect

Cognition: Intact but distracted

Insight/Judgment: Good insight; motivated to improve

Prompt for Students

Discuss how serotonin and GABA regulation normally reduces anxiety and promotes emotional stability and compare how dysregulation produces Nadias symptoms. Identify one connection or contrast between these systems and describe one nursing implication related to calming strategies, communication, or patient education.

Reference

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing 10th Edition CoursePoint 2026. Author(s)

Videbeck, Sheila. VBID: 9781975266882 | ISBN/ISSN:

9781975239152 (Chapters 2 & 4, 8-9)