Texas Medical Assistant Certification Practice Test

What is a key benefit of endorphins in the brain?

1. Decreased immunity to disease

2. Increased stress levels

3. Decreased negative feelings

4. Lowered overall wellness

The correct answer is: Decreased negative feelings

Endorphins are neurotransmitters produced by the brain that play a significant role in regulating mood and emotional response. Their primary function is to help alleviate pain and induce feelings of pleasure or euphoria, which contributes to an overall sense of well-being. When the level of endorphins increases, they bind to the same receptors in the brain as opioids, leading to a reduction in negative feelings such as anxiety, stress, and depression. The release of endorphins often occurs in response to activities like exercise, laughter, and engaging in enjoyable tasks, promoting a positive emotional state. As a result, the decrease in negative feelings is a fundamental benefit of endorphins, making them essential for mental health and emotional resilience. This effect underscores why stimulating endorphin release through various activities can be therapeutic and is utilized in many wellness strategies.