DiscoverQuiet The ClockWhy You Can't Stop Scrolling: The Dopamine Trap Explained
Why You Can't Stop Scrolling: The Dopamine Trap Explained

Why You Can't Stop Scrolling: The Dopamine Trap Explained

Update: 2025-11-05
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Beth sits down with Dr. Trish Leigh, a neuro coach, educator, and all-around brain expert, for a fascinating and honest conversation about how our screens are shaping the way we think, feel, and connect. From social media scrolling to online overload, Dr. Leigh breaks down what's really happening in our brains and why it can feel so hard to unplug. They dive into how screen habits can impact our relationships, our focus, and even our happiness, but also how we can start to rewire our brains for more balance, calm, and connection.

Whether you're looking to feel more present, cultivate more joy and connection, or simply create a healthier relationship with your devices, this episode offers practical tools and a refreshing perspective to help you find balance in an always-on digital world.

FOLLOW OUR GUEST:

Dr. Trish Leigh is a cognitive neuroscientist, board-certified neurofeedback practitioner, and certified sex addiction recovery coach. With more than 25 years of experience, she specializes in treating screen-based compulsions and executive dysfunction using brain-based diagnostics and neuroplasticity strategies. Her work draws on qEEG brain mapping, trauma-informed coaching, and addiction neuroscience to help individuals restore brain balance and behavioral integrity. Her latest book, Mind Over Explicit Matter, is a best-seller in the field of porn addiction recovery and digital dependency.

Website: https://drtrishleigh.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drtrishleigh/ 

We Also Talk About:

Neurological effects of screen time and explicit content on adults and children.

The concept of "strained brain" and its impact on mental health and well-being.

The role of dopamine in screen addiction and its effects on behavior and satisfaction.

The long-term consequences of early exposure to explicit material on brain development.

The challenges of behavior change and the importance of addressing neurological dysregulation.

The impact of hypersexualized social media on identity formation and self-regulation.

Parenting strategies for managing children's screen time and fostering healthy technology use.

The relationship between screen addiction and declining fertility rates.

The importance of intentional screen use and creating healthy habits to combat addiction.

The broader cultural implications of screen overuse on social skills, relationships, and emotional health.



Resources

 

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Chapters

Strained Brain & Screen Time Patterns (00:00:00 )**  

Dr. Leigh explains "strained brain" patterns from screen time and explicit material, and how screens reinforce stress and exhaustion.

 

**Podcast Introduction, Guest Welcome & Dr. Leigh's Mission (00:01:56 )**  

Host welcomes Dr. Trish Leigh, introduces the podcast's mission, and Dr. Leigh describes her neuro coaching, global work, and the measurable effects of screens on brain health.

 

**Neuroplasticity, Brain Recovery & Scientific Evidence (00:03:23 )**  

Dr. Leigh discusses the brain's ability to recover through neuroplasticity, and the scientific basis for the effects of screen time and explicit material.

 

**Insidious Nature of Screen Overuse & Behavior Change (00:04:41 )**  

Dr. Leigh compares screen overuse to smoking, highlighting secrecy and normalization, and discusses the neurological un

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Why You Can't Stop Scrolling: The Dopamine Trap Explained

Why You Can't Stop Scrolling: The Dopamine Trap Explained