Why does dopamin crash after a peak?

Dopamine can fall below its usual baseline after a peak: a strong release is followed by a temporary trough, which can feel like lower mood, energy, or motivation. 1

• The higher the peak, the deeper the trough: The size of the post-peak drop is proportional to how high the peak was. 2
• Repeated intense peaks may lower baseline dopamine: Repeated large spikes can progressively lower baseline and make pleasure and motivation harder to experience; after very sharp rises, recovery can take longer and may take several days. 3 4
• Moderating or stopping the triggers may help restore baseline: Avoiding the dopamine-releasing activity or substance gives the system time to replenish; recovery can take several days. 5 6