Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a major role in reward motivated behavior, motor control, and several other functions.

It's a natural part of our brain's functioning, and in healthy doses, it can motivate us to achieve our goals and experience pleasure. However, when we become overly dependent on

activities or substances that release dopamine, there can be downsides. And I'm going to talk about

some of them. Welcome back to savvy psychologist. I'm your host, Dr. Monica Johnson. Every week on this show, I'll help you

face life challenges with evidence-based approaches, a sympathetic ear, and zero judgment.

While dopamine plays an integral role in several positive and essential physiological processes,

an over-reliance or misuse can lead to significant

drawbacks. Dopamine, a prominent neurotransmitter in the brain, is often colloquially referred to

as the feel-good chemical. Its role in regulating mood, motivation, and reward is crucial for our survival.

It signals pleasure and satisfaction, creating a sense of well-being and pleasure.

It is released during pleasurable situations, stimulating us to seek out the pleasurable activity or occupation,

ensuring the perpetuation of life-sustaining activities like eating and procreation.

However, like many biological systems, an imbalance, especially in over-dependence on dopamine-releasing

activities or substances, can have detrimental effects.

The first downside we will discuss is desensitization.

Natural activities provide a balanced release of dopamine.

However, some substances and behaviors cause an unnatural spike in its release.

Over time and with repetition, the brain adapts by reducing dopamine receptors or their sensitivity.

This phenomenon, known as desensitization, means that over time, more of the substance or behavior is needed to achieve the same level of pleasure or reward, leading to tolerance.

Which is a good segue to my next one.

Tolerance and escalation.

As an individual builds tolerance, they often need to escalate their behavior or substance use to achieve the same dopamine high.

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