Dopamine: The Neurotransmitter That Affects Focus and Motivation

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that acts as a neuro modulator, changing the activity of brain circuits to increase focus and attention to external stimuli. It also drives motivation and the desire for things beyond ourselves. Dopamine influences how we perceive the world, narrowing our visual and auditory focus when it is released in the brain. This ability to direct attention is not limited to individuals with ADHD, but is present in all individuals.

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Maddison Kennedy

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In this episode, I discuss ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder): what it is, the common myths, and the biology and psychology of ADHD.

I discuss both behavioral and pharmacologic treatments for ADHD, and brain-machine interface tools. I also discuss behavioral training protocols that can improve focus in people with ADHD and those without ADHD, and for people of different ages. I discuss the role of dopamine in coordinating 'default-mode' and 'task-related' neural networks, attentional "blinks" (lapses of attention) and how to overcome them, and the role of actual blinks in time perception and attention. Finally, I review some of the prescription and over-the-counter compounds for increasing focus such as Adderall, Ritalin, Modafinil and Armodafinil, the racetams, Alpha-GPC and phosphatidylserine and the role of diet for managing ADHD (and the controversies of diet for ADHD).

The role of cell phones/technology in ADHD and ADHD-like challenges with focus are also discussed. Throughout, both basic science and clinical scenarios, as well as applicable tools and resources are covered.

Read the full show notes for this episode at hubermanlab.com.