The anticipation of drug use creates a mini spike in dopamine, which is followed by a deficit state that drives the motivation to seek the drug.

When you anticipate a reward and it arrives, the associated behavior is more likely to occur again; however, if the expected reward does not come, dopamine levels can drop significantly.

Excessive dopamine release can lead to habituation, where the brain becomes less responsive to pleasure, while simultaneously increasing the perception of pain, a mechanism that can contribute to addiction.

Dopamine is primarily released in anticipation and craving rather than in response to pleasure, which narrows our focus on what we desire.

Addiction is not just about pleasure; it's about wanting and motivation, which is driven by dopamine deficits.

Dopamine is released when we pursue our goals, which is why many people feel depressed after achieving a big goal; they expect a greater reward.

Dopamine drives cravings and motivation, while serotonin and endocannabinoids help enhance enjoyment of the present, creating a balance between seeking more and appreciating what you have.

People can relapse not only after negative life events but also when things are going well, possibly due to the dopamine associated with their successes.

To increase dopamine release, one can practice subjective rewards through thoughts, actions, or even certain drugs, but caution is needed with substances like cocaine and methamphetamine due to their addictive nature.