The COMT gene (catechol-O-methyltransferase) codes for an enzyme that breaks down catecholamines (dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, and ephedrone); individuals with slow COMT variants accumulate these neurotransmitters, manifesting as chronic anxiety, overthinking, sleep disruption (mind awake while body is tired), tendency toward worst-case scenario thinking, and a heightened baseline state of alertness described as 'worrier' phenotype.