Addiction
Is addiction treatable?
Yes, it is.
What does dopamine do?
It can cause a person to feel happiness or pleasure.
What causes screen addiction?
The stimuli produced by screens can activate the dopamine reward system in the brain
How is Television/Streaming a factor for screen addiction?
People might be stuck binge-watching shows or movies for hours.
name 3 possible effects from screen addiction
sleep disturbances, social isolation, loss of interest in other things, neglecting responsibilities, anxiety & depression, lack of physical activity and obesity, chronic neck and back pain
What is the suicide hotline? How can they help?
988 suicide & crisis hotline, they have a substance use support line
What is dopamine?
Dopamine is a type of neurotransmitter and hormone.
name 2 signs of screen addiction
irritability, anxiety, anger when forced to stop playing, lying about the extent of use, needing more screen time over time.
What happens in the brain when any "factor" of screen addiction occurs?
Dopamine is released
How can the effects of screen addiction be reversed?
increased exposure to greenery, nature and sunlight
What are the 2 main forms of addiction?
substance use disorders and behavioral addictions
How often does an addict need to maintain dopamine levels?
An addict will need a certain activity/substance regularly to maintain their dopamine levels.
How many times does the average American check their phone each day?
The average American checks their smartphone 144 times per day.
What might someone stuck on social media waste their time doing?
Spend excessive time on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, or Twitter, constantly scrolling, posting, or engaging with content
What happens socially to a person who is addicted to screens?
They will get socially isolated as they get more and more into the addiction.
What aspects of a person's life are affected through addiction?
Physical and mental health & relationships and career
What can low dopamine levels cause?
Low dopamine levels can cause tiredness, moodiness, and lack of motivation
How long does the average American spend looking at their phone each day?
The average American spends 4 hours and 37 minutes looking at their phone every day
Name 5 factors for screen addicition
Social Media, Online gambling, Video games, Notifications, Messages, Television, Internet Browsing (any of these 5 work)
What can excessive screen time do to the cerebral cortex?
Excessive screen time can cause thinning in the cerebral cortex
What are 4 of the things addiction can do to the body?
It can cause nausea and abdominal pain, changes in appetite, weight loss, increased strain on the liver, seizures, stroke, mental confusion, brain damage & more. (any of these 4)
What can high levels of dopamine cause?
High dopamine levels can cause mania, hallucinations, delusions, obesity, and addiction
How many times does the Average American check their phone?
The average American checks their smartphone 144 times per day.
What might make someone obsessed with checking their messages and notifications?
The fear of missing out on info or things that are happening.
What is the cerebral cortex and what is it used for?
The cerebral cortex is the brain's outermost layer used for processing memory, cognitive functions & decision making/problem solving.