"Dopamine is the molecule that makes us look at things outside the boundaries of our skin, to be in pursuit of things." - Andrew Huberman

Dopamine and Its Role

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that performs many key functions in our brains. It affects blood pressure, muscle coordination, and is a source of creativity and motivation. Too high or too low its level may affect the occurrence of diseases such as Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia and is associated with various mental disorders.

One of the most important roles played by dopamine is the regulation of mental and emotional processes, which is why it is called the happiness hormone, because it is responsible for our reward system, i.e. for how and when we feel happy or why we feel depressed at a given moment.

How does dopamine make you feel?
Dopamine levels influence our well-being. Whether we feel happy, motivated to act or depressed at a given moment. Dopamine causes people to repeat behaviours that give them pleasure, from checking Instagram to taking drugs. What may turn out to be interesting is that dopamine is released in response to the mere anticipation that something pleasant will happen to us.

There is a link between pleasure and pain, which is caused by dopamine, and understanding how dopamine affects your feelings and behaviours can help you appreciate the importance of maintaining a balanced relationship with this powerful neurotransmitter.

One example is a cold bath or cold shower. In my example, I know it hurts for a while, but when I get out of a cold shower, I feel like my dopamine levels have shot up. I feel better and have increased motivation to act.

Dopamine Addiction
In today's world, at every step we have access to stimuli that provide us with the so-called "Instant gratification" i.e. junk food, porn, social media, video games, alcohol and drugs. This sounds like constant stimulation of our brain. Today, no effort is required from us to stimulate ourselves with dopamine. Which causes us to crave larger and larger doses of dopamine. Manufacturers today create electronic equipment such as VR glasses, which, among other things, are supposed to produce as much dopamine as possible.

It doesn't take us any effort, stimulates emotions, creates impulsive behaviours. We fall into a bad relationship with dopamine and often start to digest our lives instead of creating them the way we want them to be. We become addicted to things or activities that give them a momentary high, which is usually followed by an equally large drop, which also causes us to want more and more of it.

Signs and Symptoms of Dopamine Addiction
• Compulsive Behaviour: Inability to control engagement in the addictive activity.
• Tolerance: Needing more of the activity or substance to achieve the same level of pleasure.
• Withdrawal: Experiencing discomfort or distress when unable to engage in the activity.
• Neglect of Responsibilities: Ignoring daily responsibilities and obligations in favour of the addictive behaviour.
• Social Isolation: Withdrawing from social interactions to engage in the addictive activity.

The Concept of Dopamine Detox
Break the cycle and start the dopamine detox. It does not mean you’re going to detox from all of kinds of dopamine. It means that you can learn how to keep your level of dopamine constant and have more control over your life.

Dopamine detox involves taking a deliberate break from activities that provide immediate and intense pleasure or gratification. These activities often lead to spikes in dopamine levels, creating a cycle of craving and addiction. By temporarily abstaining from these behaviours, you allow your brain to reset and your dopamine receptors to return to a more natural state of sensitivity.

Benefits of a Dopamine Detox
• Enhanced focus and concentration: By reducing constant distractions, you can improve your ability to concentrate on important tasks.
• Greater appreciation for simple pleasures: Recalibrating your dopamine levels can help you find joy in everyday activities.
• Improved mental health: Reducing reliance on external stimuli can lower anxiety and stress levels.
• Better control over habits: A dopamine detox can help you develop healthier, more intentional habits.

Boost your dopamine naturally
• Regular sleeping
• Physical activities
• Balanced diet
• Socializing with other people

Long-term Strategies for Healthy Dopamine Balance
• Regular Detox Periods: Taking breaks from technology and other addictive activities to reset the brain’s dopamine system.
• Balanced Lifestyle: Prioritizing a well-rounded life that includes work, rest, social interaction, and self-care.
• Setting Boundaries: Establishing limits on the use of technology and engagement in potentially addictive behaviours.

Conclusion

A dopamine detox is not about eliminating pleasure from your life. It's about achieving balance and gaining control over your relationship with dopamine. By learning to manage your dopamine levels more effectively, you can enjoy a more fulfilling and balanced life, free from the constant need for high-stimulation activities. Remember, balance is the key. I deeply believe that dopamine detox can help achieve more and live better.