Have you ever found yourself laughing so intensely at a video that you needed a moment to regain your composure? With enthusiasm, you continue scrolling through the latest amusing cat content, only to find yourself laughing even more uncontrollably. This exhilarating rush of dopamine, often referred to as the "happy hormone," is something many people actively seek. Such fleeting moments of joy frequently arise from engaging with social media, including likes, comments, and even impulsive purchases or binge eating.

The pursuit of instant gratification has ensnared us in a relentless cycle of temporary pleasure. Whether it is doubling over with laughter at a video or making impulsive purchases under the guise of "retail therapy," these actions are all aimed at obtaining quick bursts of happiness. However, this approach is not beneficial in the long term, as the initial highs of dopamine inevitably lead to a crash, adversely affecting mental health.

As you share the video that made you laugh so hard, a sudden realization strikes—you pause and reflect, "What am I really doing?" Nishtha Jain, a counselling psychologist at the mental health platform Lissun, has provided insights on how to manage the highs of instant dopamine.

Why does fleeting dopamine chase make you happy?

The intense wave of happiness derived from activities such as social media engagement, impulsive purchases, or excessive eating can be so compelling that one finds themselves ensnared in a repetitive cycle. These activities create a deceptive sense of relaxation, perpetually fostering a desire for the next moment of pleasure.

Nishtha offered valuable insights into the mechanics of this immediate dopamine response. She explained, “Dopamine is a neurotransmitter linked to the brain's reward system. Whenever we encounter something enjoyable or rewarding, the brain releases dopamine, signalling that the experience is delightful. This surge of dopamine provides a rapid emotional reward that individuals perceive as positive. However, this gratification is transient. Because the behaviour appears beneficial, it is continually reinforced by the brain, leading individuals to feel compelled to repeat the action, such as incessantly scrolling through social media. This ongoing cycle of immediate gratification ultimately undermines long-term fulfilment.”

Why instant dopamine rush is harmful

Experiencing instant dopamine may appear to be a straightforward method for unwinding and achieving relaxation. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the various adverse aspects associated with this fleeting dopamine surge before it becomes your sole source of deceptive pleasure.

Nishtha Jain articulated, “Although a dopamine surge can provide temporary satisfaction, it carries addictive and detrimental consequences over time. The allure of instant gratification fosters a cycle of reliance on immediate rewards, such as social media interactions and excessive eating. The ease and accessibility of a dopamine rush can also result in diminished emotional resilience; as individuals become accustomed to instant rewards, they may struggle to cope with everyday challenges or discomfort. Furthermore, instant dopamine can lead to detrimental behaviours, including impulsive spending and procrastination. Ultimately, the intrinsic motivation to pursue long-term objectives recedes, while the pursuit of instant dopamine takes precedence.”

Nishtha further identified a broad spectrum of negative emotional reactions that may arise once the dopamine rush subsides.

• Boredom
• Irritability
• Frustration
• Emotional burnout
• Guilt and shame
• Emotional numbing
• Dissatisfaction
• Anxiety
• Depression

How to be more productive?

Instead of pursuing temporary pleasures, individuals should concentrate on engaging in activities that foster enduring fulfilment and profound satisfaction. The emotional responses following these activities are likely to be positive, enhancing one's self-esteem.

Nishtha proposed several constructive alternatives to elevate your mood:

● Acquire a new skill: Choose a skill or hobby that captivates your interest while also presenting a challenge for personal growth. Examples include mastering a musical instrument or gaining knowledge about the stock market. Emphasize intentional practice and focus on your development rather than solely on the results.

● Foster meaningful social connections: In the digital age, emotional connections and face-to-face interactions have diminished. However, these interactions are among the most rewarding experiences of human existence, providing sustainable joy not only to the individual but also to those involved. Consider organizing in-person gatherings such as dinners or board game nights.

● Explore healthy cooking: Engaging in cooking stimulates both creativity and skill enhancement, leading to long-term satisfaction. Additionally, nourishing your body with wholesome meals contributes to overall well-being and increases dopamine levels.

● Initiate a fitness challenge: Engaging in physical activity not only elevates dopamine levels at the moment but also establishes a positive feedback loop through the achievement of fitness goals, whether related to strength, flexibility, or endurance.

Read Also: Takshak Teerth Bada Shivala: The Sacred Abode of Lord Shiva in Prayagraj

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!