

Brain Rot: Internet addiction
9 snips Oct 4, 2025
Explore the reality of internet addiction through personal stories and expert insights. Guests discuss the profound effects of excessive screen time, from obsessive social media use to the struggles of withdrawal symptoms. Learn about peer support and the value of face-to-face recovery meetings. Dive into the science of dopamine and how it fuels tech cravings. Plus, discover innovative rehab models and the journey toward reclaiming life beyond screens. A thought-provoking look at our relationship with technology!
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Official Diagnosis Lags Behind Clinical Reality
- The episode notes there's no official DSM diagnosis for smartphone addiction yet, though experts argue the science supports it.
- Anna Lembke expects formal recognition may follow as evidence accumulates despite DSM lag.
Late-Life Obsession With Social Media
- Jillian, 68, described becoming "glassy-eyed" and losing days to Facebook after getting home Wi-Fi during lockdown.
- She compared the feeling to past alcoholism and felt trapped as her daily life shrank to the screen.
Sleep Deprivation Fueled By Nighttime Scrolling
- Kate described nights awake watching reality TV on her phone after night feeds and functioning on minimal sleep.
- She estimated spending 10–12+ hours a day online and losing normal time boundaries.