Brain Chemicals Rule Everything

The day's news sorted by what makes you scroll, scream, or sob.

May 17, 2025

🧠 Dopamine (reward, novelty, motivation)

Alrosa Discovers Russia's 'Largest-Ever' Diamond as Mir Mine Reopens
Alrosa announces the discovery of a 468-carat diamond named '80 Years of Victory in the Great Patriotic War,' the largest ever mined in Russia, from the Mir mine in the Sakha Republic.
The Moscow Times

🌞 Serotonin (mood stability, social status)

Bank of England Cuts Interest Rates from 4.5% to 4.25%
The Bank of England reduces interest rates to 4.25%, aiming to stimulate economic growth and provide stability amid global financial uncertainties.
BBC

❤️ Oxytocin (bonding, trust, empathy)

Two Palestinian Girls from Gaza Arrive in UK for Medical Treatment
Two young Palestinian girls from Gaza become the first to arrive in the UK for medical treatment since the war with Israel began in October 2023, highlighting international humanitarian efforts.
BBC

⚠️ Adrenaline (stress, urgency, fight-or-flight)

Mass Blackout Hits Siberia's Coal-Producing Kemerovo Region
A blackout in Kemerovo Oblast cuts electricity to 28,000 people, raising concerns about infrastructure vulnerabilities in the region.
The Moscow Times

😰 Cortisol (chronic stress, anxiety)

Russia and Ukraine Agree to Prisoner Swap After First Direct Talks Since 2022
Ukraine and Russia hold their first direct peace negotiations since 2022 in Turkey, resulting in an agreement to exchange prisoners, marking a potential step toward de-escalation.
The Moscow Times

🎉 Endorphins (pain relief, euphoria)

Zhao Xintong Wins 2025 World Snooker Championship
Chinese player Zhao Xintong clinches the 2025 World Snooker Championship title after defeating Mark Williams 18-12 in the final, bringing joy to fans and the sports community.
BBC