Felt good after buying that handbag, chocolate or cigarette? Here's why

Pleasure itself - that good feeling you get in response to food, sex and drugs - is driven by the release of a range of neurotransmitters in many parts of the brain

Every day we make a range of choices in the pursuit of pleasure: we do things that make us feel good or work in a specific job because it’s rewarding or pays well. These experiences help shape our perspectives on life and define our personality.

Consequently, problems with our ability to manage or maintain our pursuit of pleasure often lie at the root of many neuropsychiatric disorders such as addiction and depression.

What’s going on in the brain when we experience pleasure?

Pleasure itself – that good feeling you get in response to food, sex and drugs – is driven by the release