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Neuro-transmitter substances
When a brain cell or neuron is activated it fires off electrically; this firing-off releases a small amount of a chemical at the end of the nerve fibre. This chemical is called a neuro-transmitter substance.
The neuro-transmitter substance in turn stimulates the next neuron to fire off. Thus the conduction of impulses in the brain is via an electrical-chemical – electrical – chemical -electrical, etc., process.
The neurotransmitter substances of the reticular activating system are different from those secreted by the learning/ unlearning cells of the cerebral cortex. Noradrenalin and serotonin are neurotransmitters which probably play an important role in this system.
Because changes in the level of neuro-transmitter substances available to be secreted at nerve endings can affect brain function, it is probable that the inhibitory reserve reflects levels of available neuro-transmitter substances. Should levels of these neuro-transmitter substances in the brain become diminished as in malnutrition or where the brain’s metabolism is disturbed’ then it is possible that the inhibitory reserve will be adversely affected.
Importance of sleep
However, the single most important factor in the regeneration of the inhibitory reserve is sleep. Sleep is an essential part of the treatment of all patterns of disturbed mental function, and the relationship between lack of sleep and irritability is so self-evident that there is no need for scientific proof. Every mother with experience of looking after cranky children who have missed out on their daytime nap, has learned for herself the relationship between sleep and the regeneration of the inhibitory reserve.
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