The difference and connection between endorphins and dopamine

Endorphins and dopamine are two different neurotransmitters. The former is mainly associated with pain relief and pleasure, while the latter dominates motivation and reward mechanisms. However, there is a synergistic effect between the two in emotion regulation.

1. Functional Differences

Endorphins belong to endogenous opioid peptides secreted by the pituitary gland and hypothalamus. They produce analgesic effects by inhibiting pain signal transmission, while also inducing a sense of calm and pleasure after exercise or under stress. Dopamine is synthesized from the substantia nigra and ventral tegmental area, acting on the reward circuit of the brain to drive goal-directed behavior, such as a sense of achievement in completing tasks and expectations for rewards.

2. Mechanism of Action

Endorphins exert their effects by activating μ - opioid receptors, with a slow and long-lasting effect, such as lasting pleasure for several hours after long-distance running. Dopamine acts on the D1-D5 receptor family, with a rapid and transient effect. For example, the excitatory sensation during game victory usually lasts only a few minutes and requires continuous stimulation to maintain pleasure.

3. Secretory inducer

Endorphins are released when the body is under moderate stress, commonly seen in situations such as moderate to high-intensity exercise, spicy diets, or acupuncture therapy. Dopamine secretion is associated with uncertain rewards, such as social media likes, gambling wins, or novel experiences in real-time feedback scenarios.

4. Emotional Influence

Endorphins produce a satisfying pleasure that helps alleviate anxiety and depression. Clinical studies have found that endorphin levels in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with depression are lower. Dopamine triggers craving type pleasure, and excessive secretion may lead to addictive behavior, commonly seen in patients with substance dependence or behavioral addiction.

5. Synergistic Relationship

There is cross regulation between the two in neural activity, and an increase in endorphins during exercise promotes dopamine release, resulting in a dual pleasurable effect after exercise. Under chronic stress, abnormal dopamine system may inhibit endorphin function, which is associated with diseases such as fibromyalgia. Maintaining a balance between the two requires a combination of regular movement and goal management. It is recommended to engage in aerobic exercise at least three times a week to stimulate the secretion of endorphins, while setting decomposable phased targets to activate the dopamine system. To avoid excessive reliance on short-term dopamine stimulation behaviors, such as overeating or addiction to short videos, mindfulness meditation can be used to regulate the sensitivity of the reward system. When experiencing sustained low mood or uncontrolled behavior, professional psychological assessment should be sought in a timely manner.