Why does dopamin crash after a peak?

After a strong dopamine peak, dopamine can dip below its usual baseline, temporarily lowering mood and motivation. The dip is linked to the system’s need to return from a reward-related increase, including because the readily releasable pool of dopamine has been used; replenishing it takes time. 1 2

• 1. The higher the peak, the deeper the subsequent drop may be. The size of the below-baseline dip is proportional to the height of the preceding peak. 3
• 2. Repeated intense peaks may lower baseline dopamine and reduce pleasure or motivation; recovery can take substantial time. Repeatedly pursuing large peaks can progressively lower baseline and make activities feel less rewarding. After a large trough, restoring the releasable pool can take several days. 4 5
• 3. Moderating or stopping activities that cause extreme peaks may help restore baseline levels. Avoiding the behaviors or substances driving the peaks gives the dopamine system time to replenish; the account also describes a 30-day break from video games and social media followed by improved mood and concentration. 6