Pleasure vs. Happiness: The Brain Chemistry Behind Our Pursuits
Apart from the use of the substance being around the people who provide it to you, the place where you use it, the things that you use it with beautiful glasses, triggers the craving to use more of it, even for people who do not have a problem- quote-unquote- who might have two or three of the criteria out of the for substance use disorder, which qualifies as mild.
Ever wondered why some moments bring fleeting joy while others leave a lasting sense of fulfillment? In this episode of The Sober Therapist SoberSoul Recovery Podcast, Lynn Matti breaks down the intricate dance between pleasure and happiness. She dives into the roles of dopamine and serotonin, those tiny chemicals in our brains that wield enormous power over our moods and behaviors. Lynn explains how addiction can disrupt these natural processes, making it harder to find genuine happiness.
Drawing on research from Dr. Lustig, she reveals how the relentless chase for pleasure can often undermine true contentment. Lynn doesn't just stop at the science; she offers practical advice on coping with stress and anxiety through mindfulness, exercise, and good sleep. She emphasizes that while pleasure might offer quick hits of satisfaction, lasting happiness is built on deeper foundations like connection, contribution, and effective coping strategies.
This episode is perfect for anyone curious about the brain's role in addiction and recovery, or simply looking for ways to cultivate more enduring happiness in their lives.