I was enjoying a coffee in Blackburn Mall the other day and couldn’t help noticing how many people were glued to their phones, even as they were walking along, or whilst they were sat in couples or groups.
In our fast-paced, digitally driven world, it’s easy to get caught up in a whirlwind of constant stimulation. From the endless scroll of social media to the immersive worlds of video games, we’re constantly bombarded with experiences designed to trigger our brains’ reward system.
At the heart of this lies dopamine, a neurotransmitter often associated with pleasure and reward. When we engage in activities we enjoy, our brains release dopamine, creating a sense of satisfaction and motivation. However, excessive dopamine stimulation can lead to a range of issues, including addiction, anxiety, and depression.
Social media platforms, for instance, are expertly crafted to keep us hooked. The intermittent reinforcement of likes, comments, and notifications provides a constant stream of dopamine hits, making it difficult to resist the urge to check our phones. Similarly, video games are designed to be highly engaging, with rewards and challenges strategically placed to maintain our interest.
While these activities can be fun and enjoyable in moderation, overindulgence can lead to negative consequences. When we’re constantly seeking out dopamine rushes, our brains become less sensitive to natural rewards, making it harder to find satisfaction in everyday life.
I tend to think of dopamine like a rollercoaster. When we experience a surge of dopamine, we feel elated and energised. However, as the effects of the dopamine rush wear off, we may experience a crash, feeling low, irritable, or even depressed. This rollercoaster effect can be particularly harmful to our mental well-being, as it can lead to mood swings, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating.
To counteract the negative effects of excessive dopamine stimulation, it’s important to find ways to level out our dopamine production. As with most things in life it is about getting the balance right. While it’s okay to indulge in activities that bring us pleasure, it’s important to balance these with activities that promote relaxation and rejuvenation.
Have a think to yourself, when was the last time you really ‘got in the moment’ when you were in the company of others? Spending time with loved ones can help us to feel more connected and supported. Try putting the phone down and talking to the people you are with.
n Martin Furber is a therapist qualified in various modalities and an Instructor Member of Mental Health First Aid England wellbeing@martinfurber.com
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