Lecture on the Nervous System

Overview

• The nervous system creates a relationship between body and mind.
• It is a network of cells that carries information to and from the body and connects it to the outside world.
• Basic functions include receiving inputs, processing them, and generating output responses.

Neurons and Glial Cells

• Neurons:
  • Specialized cells for communication, sending and receiving messages.
  • Structure: Soma (cell body), dendrites (branches), axon (long extension), and axon terminals.
  • Surrounded by myelin sheath for efficient communication.
  • Communication via action potentials and neurotransmitters.
• Glial Cells:
  • Support neurons, supply nutrients, and oxygen.

Neurotransmitters

• Dopamine:
  • Can be inhibitory or excitatory.
  • Associated with movement, pleasure, and addiction.
  • Involved in conditions like Parkinson's (movement regulation) and ADHD.
• Serotonin:
  • Primarily inhibitory.
  • Regulates mood, sleep, eating, and depression.
  • SSRIs increase serotonin availability in the system.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

• Somatic Nervous System:
  • Controls voluntary movements and conveys sensory information.
• Autonomic Nervous System:
  • Involuntary control over organs and glands.
  • Sympathetic: "Fight or flight" response.
  • Parasympathetic: "Rest and digest" response.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

• Comprised of the brain and spinal cord.
• Spinal Cord:
  • Connects the brain to the PNS, processes reflex actions.

Key Concepts

• Action Potentials:
  • All-or-nothing electrical signals that enable neurotransmitter release.
  • Polarized state involves negative ions inside and positive ions outside.
• Communication and Environment:
  • Nervous system responds to the environment, influenced by neurotransmitter levels and the peripheral system.
  • Balance between free will and biological determinism in actions and health.

Application and Misconceptions

• Impact of neurotransmitters on psychological and emotional experiences.
• The importance of environment and perception in mental health and neurological studies.
• Encouragement to integrate neuroscience findings with a broader biopsychosocial understanding.