1114: Dr. Alok Kanojia | Breaking the Cycle of Digital Dependence

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Feb 11, 2025

Dr. Alok Kanojia, a psychiatrist specializing in tech addiction, sheds light on the alarming rates of digital dependencies, particularly with pornography. He explains how trauma can distort perceptions and heighten addiction while advocating for diverse therapeutic approaches. Kanojia emphasizes the importance of small, authentic steps toward change rather than relying solely on willpower. He also discusses the impact of social media on self-image and relationships, and how understanding these dynamics is crucial for mental health recovery.

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INSIGHT

Trauma’s Impact

Trauma activates hypervigilance, making us overly sensitive to potential threats.
This explains why one bad experience can outweigh many good ones, hindering logical responses.

ANECDOTE

Overcoming Trauma

Jordan Harbinger shares a story about a friend traumatized after an assault.
She desensitized herself by revisiting similar scenarios with a safety net, eventually overcoming her fear.

INSIGHT

Reframing Change

Instead of asking "Am I ready to change?", ask "Do I wish I were someone who wanted to change?".
This shift reframes resistance, promoting self-reflection and motivation towards desired change.

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Psychiatrist Dr. Alok Kanojia discusses the hidden psychology of modern tech addiction and shares evidence-based strategies for breaking free!

What We Discuss with Dr. Alok Kanojia:

Digital addiction, particularly to pornography, has reached unprecedented levels (49-75% self-reported addiction rates), largely due to technology's ability to hijack multiple brain circuits simultaneously.
Trauma creates hypervigilance through the brain's survival mechanisms, which weigh negative experiences more heavily than positive ones. This explains why one bad experience can override many good ones.
Mental illness is increasing partly due to better diagnosis, but also because modern technology and social media distort our sense of self and relationship with reality, particularly through filtered images and curated content.
Traditional therapy approaches may not work for everyone, especially men, as the field has inherent biases toward verbal processing. Alternative approaches like exercise, body-focused work, or other methodologies can be equally effective.
You can rewire your brain and change who you are by first accepting your authentic self and desires, then building positive habits around them. Start by asking "Do I wish I were someone who wanted to change?" rather than forcing change through willpower alone. Small, consistent steps toward your genuine goals lead to lasting transformation.
And much more...

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