Oxytocin

Oxytocin is a hormone that plays an important role in a number of processes such as reproduction, birthing, and maternal bonding. And oxytocin has been associated with generosity, desire, and trust.

Oxytocin is produced by the hypothalamus and stored and secreted by the posterior pituitary gland. It acts primarily as a neuro-modulator in the brain and is known as the bonding hormone. Oxytocin underpins trust and bonding behavior by inducing a calm, warm mood that increases tender feelings and attachment and may lead us to lower our guard. Many studies have looked at oxytocin’s role in various behaviors, like an orgasm, social recognition, pair bonding, anxiety, and decision making. It has a huge impact on our life. It has an immense impact on trust. Trust is indispensable in friendship, love, families and organizations.

Oxytocin has the best reputation. But maybe it is two-faced. Presumably, oxytocin also intensifies positive social memories and, thereby, increases feelings of well-being. But oxytocin also appears to be the reason stressful social situations reverberate long past the event and can trigger fear and anxiety in the future because the hormone actually strengthens social memory in one specific region of the brain.

If a social experience is negative or stressful, the hormone activates a part of the brain that intensifies the memory. Oxytocin also increases the susceptibility to feeling fearful and anxious during stressful events going forward.

The study of the function of oxytocin with anxiety disorders has only recently begun. The findings are important because chronic social stress is one of the leading causes of anxiety and depression, while positive social interactions enhance emotional health.