Dopamine, Phones, and the Art of Feeling Good (for Longer)
Dopamine is essential for healthy mental function. It’s the brain’s way of motivating us, helping us focus, and rewarding us for doing things that matter. It’s what drives us to set goals, complete tasks, and enjoy meaningful experiences.
But in today’s world, our brains are being overwhelmed by unnatural sources of dopamine—and that’s where the trouble begins.
Fast Dopamine: The Instant Gratification Trap
When you check your phone, get a notification, binge a show, or scroll endlessly, your brain gets a quick dopamine spike. It feels good—but only for a moment. Then comes the crash, often below your normal baseline. That’s why you feel restless, anxious, or even empty afterward.
This is fast dopamine—instant, intense, and fleeting. It’s triggered by things like:
- Social media
- Porn
- On-demand streaming
- Junk food
- Online shopping
These quick hits weren’t part of our evolutionary design. Our brains didn’t evolve to handle constant stimulation. And when we flood our system with fast dopamine, it starts to backfire.
The Brain’s Response: More Receptors, Less Reward
The more fast dopamine you chase, the more your brain adapts. It creates extra dopamine receptors, which means the same activity no longer feels as rewarding. You need more stimulation to get the same feeling.
This leads to:
- Compulsive habits
- Loss of motivation
- Emotional numbness
- Depression and burnout
You’re not broken—your brain is just overwhelmed. It’s trying to keep up with a world that’s moving too fast.
Slow Dopamine: The Key to Mental Wellness
The good news? Dopamine can still be your ally. Slow dopamine comes from activities that build satisfaction over time:
- Completing a task
- Going for a walk
- Reading a book
- Deep conversations
- Learning something new
This kind of dopamine rises gradually, lasts longer, and doesn’t crash as hard. It helps you feel fulfilled—not just stimulated. It’s the kind of reward your brain was designed for.
How to Rebalance Your Brain
If you’ve been feeling low, unmotivated, or disconnected, it might be time to reset your dopamine habits:
- Become aware – Notice when you’re chasing quick hits.
- Choose slow dopamine – Prioritise activities that build long-term satisfaction.
- Create space – Let your brain rest. Boredom isn’t bad—it’s where creativity and clarity begin.
- Choose Hypnotherapy to give you a head start at re wiring your brain, taking control back and make better choices.
Phones aren’t evil. Dopamine isn’t bad. But understanding how they interact helps us make better choices—and feel good for longer. It’s your choice, you are in control.
Le Beau Hypnotherapy 