1) What is "Digital Dopamine"?
Using our phones causes the release of dopamine in our brain. It's the little burst of “pleasure” you feel each time you get a new notification. Think of it as all the taps, scrolls, notifications, and attention grabbing content you engage with — all of these little things can trigger the little dopamine "hit". Dopamine is one of the main reasons we are addicted to our phones. It's a form of what many call “Digital Dopamine” — giving you a small burst of pleasure that leaves you wanting more.
Example: 10 minutes of social media = ~300 "Digital Dopamine Hits"
Our brains are so over-stimulated by "Digital Dopamine" that many of us have a hard time being present, and enjoying the real world. Lowering "Digital Dopamine" creates more space to enjoy the little things in life.
2) What is the science behind "Digital Dopamine"?
"Digital Dopamine" refers to the brain's dopamine release in response to digital stimuli like social media and gaming, reinforcing addictive behaviors.
The Roots app helps users track and manage screen time by measuring "Digital Dopamine" levels, providing insights, and setting strict limits (e.g., "Monk Mode") to reduce overstimulation.
Understanding this science is key to balancing tech use and well-being.
3) But, isn't "Dopamine" a good thing?
Dopamine can be a good thing when it's tied to healthy things like exercise, sunlight, sleep, and social interactions — but we are being overloaded with this "Digital Dopamine” with all the taps, swipes, notifications, and comments.
4) What are the effects of too much "Digital Dopamine"?
Physical symptoms can include:
Brain fog
Memory issues
Muscle cramps
Memory problems
Digestion issues
Sleep issues
Feeling tired and lethargic
Lower sex drive
Loss of coordination
Emotional symptoms can include:
Lack of motivation
Lack of focus
Anxiety
Depression
Lack of self-control
Lowered self-esteem
Less pleasure from things you used to enjoy
Aggression
Addiction
5) How are "Dopamine Hits" calculated?
The Roots app calculates "Dopamine Hits" by estimating the number of stimulating interactions a user has with their device, such as taps, swipes, and notifications.
For example, approximately 10 minutes of social media usage equates to around 300 "Dopamine Hits". This metric helps users understand the impact of different apps on their brain's reward system, recognizing that not all screen time is equal.
6) How can I reduce my "Digital Dopamine"?
Using the Roots app can help you be more mindful of your "Digital Dopamine" intake by:
Tracking your "Digital Dopamine Hits" per app
Setting better intentions
Creating app limits you can't skip
Scheduling digital downtime
Tracking your daily "Balance Score"
What about apps that provide beneficial or healthy dopamine boosts?
The Roots app doesn’t reward apps that provide "Good Dopamine". Instead, less stimulating apps have a smaller impact on your "Balance Score" and "Digital Dopamine Hits".
Click here to learn more about our "Digital Dopamine Hits" feature.
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