Sleep depends on a delicate balance of neurotransmitters, particularly serotonin and dopamine, which play opposing but complementary roles.
Serotonin supports:
Relaxation and mood regulation
Sleep onset and transition to non-REM sleep
Production of melatonin, which signals to your body that it’s time to sleep
Low serotonin can lead to insomnia, restless nights, and fragmented REM sleep.
Dopamine promotes:
Alertness and focus
Motivation and reward-driven activity
Suppression of REM sleep when levels are high
Too much dopamine late in the day can make it harder to fall asleep, while too little may reduce daytime alertness.
Serotonin helps you wind down, while dopamine helps you wake refreshed.
Healthy sleep depends on timing and balance: low serotonin or high dopamine at night can disrupt sleep onset and dream patterns.
Diet: Include tryptophan-rich foods and balanced meals
Light exposure: Daytime sunlight boosts serotonin
Exercise: Supports dopamine regulation and stress reduction
Stress management: Meditation, deep breathing, and journaling help maintain balance
With a balanced neurotransmitter system, falling asleep, staying asleep, and experiencing restorative dreams becomes far easier.
If you or someone you know struggles with sleep, please click the orange button below to take a free online sleep test and talk with one of our sleep health professionals.