05/03/2026
COMT is not a diagnosis.
It is not a personality type.
And it does not automatically mean someone has anxiety, ADHD, hormone issues, or “poor detox.”
But COMT does matter.
COMT is an enzyme involved in breaking down catecholamines (including dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine) and it also plays a role in processing catechol-estrogen metabolites.
When COMT activity is lower, some people may clear certain stimulating signals more slowly. Clinically, that can sometimes look like:
• Feeling wired but tired
• Difficulty winding down after stress
• Strong reactions to caffeine or stimulants
• Increased stress sensitivity
• Emotional intensity with slower recovery
• Sensitivity around hormonal shifts
• Feeling overstimulated by noise, light, or a busy environment
But here’s the important part:
COMT does not work alone.
Your nervous system is influenced by sleep, trauma history, hormones, inflammation, medications, nutrition, thyroid function, environment, and many other genes.
So a COMT result should never be used as a stand-alone explanation for symptoms, and it should not be used to randomly start or stop supplements.
In integrative psychiatry, genetics can be useful when interpreted carefully. The goal is not to label someone as “slow COMT” or “fast COMT.”
The goal is to better understand patterns in the body, reduce overload, and personalize care safely.
Genetics gives clues.
It does not replace clinical judgment.
For more information and to learn more about how your genetics plays a part in your mental health, check out what we’re doing at Bigger Skies!
www.BiggerSkiesPsych.com
