The terms ‘growth’ and ‘fixed’ mindsets are widely spoken about in the recent literature, with neuroscience research discovering the brain is far more malleable than we once thought. So it is all hype? Or is there an evidence-base behind this theory?

Our minds are filled with thousands of thoughts everyday, both helpful and unhelpful in nature. The nature of our thoughts often stem from the emotions we are feeling at the current moment and this influences our behaviour, actions and decisions. So why are unhelpful thoughts bad for us? And how can you stop them?

Our brain is made up of billions of neurones communicating with each other constantly throughout the day. Most of the time, the communication between these regions are regular and positive. Everyone does however, go through moments of difficulty and pain. While this is fleeting for most, and we get back to our normal patterns of thinking in no time, for others it may not be so easy.

Thanks to neuroscience we don’t just have to take a stab in the dark anymore about what will help us improve our emotional wellbeing. We can actually pinpoint which neuro transmitters make us feel a certain way and in turn shift our behaviours to top up those ones that are depleted. This article is looking into the neurotransmitter: Norepinephrine.