Why can't you sit still? Why does silence feel terrifying? In this episode of Sober Psychology, I'll dive deep into the neuroscience of addiction, the "Dopamine Cartel," and why your phone is making you clinically anhedonic. We break down Dr. Anna Lembke's Dopamine Nation, the famous "Rat Park" experiment, and the Biblical theology of idolatry and stillness. If you feel burned out, bored, and addicted to the scroll, this episode is your wake-up call.

Topics Covered:

• The Opponent
• Process Theory (Pleasure vs. Pain)
• Why "Retail Therapy" and Scrolling are making you depressed.
• The Rat Park Experiment: Connection vs. Isolation.
• The Theology of Boredom: Why we run from God.
• How to perform a Dopamine Fast.

References:

• Dopamine Nation by Dr. Anna Lembke

• Bruce Alexander’s "Rat Park" Study

• The Holy Bible (Psalm 46, Philippians 3)

Disclaimer: I am a psychologist in training, not your psychologist. This content is for educational and entertainment purposes. If you are struggling with severe addiction or mental health crises, please seek professional help.Chapters:

0:00 - Intro

1:35 - The Cheap Dopamine Economy

4:10 - The Rat Park and the Cage

6:15 - The Casino in Your Pocket

9:11 - The Theology of Boredom

11:32 - The Noonday Demon

14:18 - Suffering on Purpose (The Solution)

16:03 - The Challenge

Categories: Mental Health, Religion & Spirituality, Self-Improvement, Science

Keywords:Dopamine, Addiction, Neuroscience, Christianity, Faith, Depression, Anxiety, Recovery, Sobriety, Psychology, Boredom, Focus, Productivity, Dr. Anna Lembke, Mental Toughness, Men's Mental Health, Spiritual Warfare.