Depression Disrupts the Neurochemistry of Love and Trust When it comes to love and intimate relationships, one neurohormone gets more press than anything else. Its name is oxytocin and it’s often called the “love hormone.” Oxytocin is released during light caresses and sex, when someone shows they trust you, and sometimes simply during conversation, which increases feelings of trust and attachment for others. Oxytocin also decreases feelings of stress, fear, and pain.
