
The Joe Rogan Experience #1708 - Anna Lembke
Sep 16, 2021
Anna Lembke, a psychiatrist and addiction specialist, dives into the fascinating world of addiction in this engaging discussion. She shares her personal battle with video game addiction as a gateway to discussing the neuroscience behind cravings. The conversation explores the thin line between passion and addiction, highlighting the role of dopamine in our lives. Lembke emphasizes the importance of resilience, ritual, and understanding pleasure versus pain in recovery. Moreover, she reflects on the therapeutic uses of psychedelics, revealing their potential in redefining addiction treatment.
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Joe Rogan's Quake Addiction
- Joe Rogan discusses his past addiction to the video game Quake.
- He describes playing all night, feeling cracked out, and realizing its negative impact on his life.
Addiction as a Disease
- The addictive personality is now viewed as a disease of addiction, influenced by genetics, environment, and access.
- Vulnerability varies, and some are more susceptible to intense reinforcement from certain activities.
The Dopamine Deficit State
- Addiction changes the brain, shifting from pleasure-seeking to avoiding pain.
- This creates a dopamine deficit, leading to continued use despite negative consequences.




