Porn can alter brain chemistry from "summary" of Your Brain on Porn by Gary Wilson
Pornography can alter brain chemistry in a significant way. When individuals engage in frequent porn use, they are bombarding their brains with an overload of hyper-stimulating images and videos. This flood of stimuli can lead to the release of dopamine, a powerful neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. Over time, the brain can become desensitized to these dopamine spikes, requiring more and more stimulation to achieve the same level of pleasure. This phenomenon is known as tolerance, and it can contribute to the development of addictive patterns of behavior. As individuals continue to consume porn to satisfy their cravings, the brain undergoes further changes. One of the key alterations that occur is the rewiring of neural pathways in the brain. The repeated exposure to pornographic material can strengthen certain connections while weakening others, leading to a shift in how the brain processes information and responds to stimuli. This rewiring can have a lasting impact on an individual's cognitive functioning and emotional regulation. Additionally, the excessive consumption of porn can disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and serotonin. These imbalances can contribute to mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety, as well as impairments in decision-making and impulse control.- The habitual use of porn can hijack the brain's reward system, leading to a host of neurological changes that can have profound effects on an individual's mental and emotional well-being. It is essential for individuals to be aware of these potential consequences and take steps to mitigate the harmful effects of excessive porn use.
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