Part 11/13:
It's crucial to balance dopamine activity—avoid excesses and drops—since persistent imbalance hampers motivation, mood, and learning.
Cautionary Notes on Pharmacology and Substance Use
While drugs like wellbutrin (buprone) can increase dopamine and norepinephrine to combat depression and enhance motivation, drugs like cocaine and amphetamine pose risks:
They produce massive dopamine surges but deplete the brain's dopamine stores and impair plasticity.
Long-term use diminishes the brain’s capacity to adapt and learn, with lasting consequences for mental health and behavioral flexibility.