Dopamine, Mental Health, and Recovery from Domestic Violence
When I left a violent relationship of many years, I decided to purchase my first SLR camera. I had always wanted to dabble in photography but had put it on the back shelf and never pursued it. Void of the relationship and needing to fill my free time, photography became a natural healer for me. The pleasure of being out in nature, taking photographs, and receiving the finished product was an uplifting experience. Little did I know that I was creating a positive dopamine release in my brain, which helped me let go of the past.
Recently, I came across a “dopamine menu” on the internet and thought, wouldn't it be great to create a menu of traditional activities that could help increase dopamine levels through cultural and traditional practices? Could this be helpful for someone leaving and recovering from an abusive relationship? I mean, who hasn’t participated in a good sweat lodge and emerged stress-free, renewed, and refreshed?
The Science of Dopamine and Emotional Healing
Dopamine is a chemical in the brain that acts like a "feel-good" messenger. It is released when we experience something pleasurable, such as eating delicious food, hearing good news, or accomplishing a goal. Think of it as the brain's natural reward signal that says, "This feels good; let’s remember this; let's do this again!" For mental health, dopamine is crucial because it motivates us to seek out positive experiences and helps us feel satisfied and happy. When we have healthy dopamine levels, we tend to feel more energized, hopeful, and capable of facing challenges. Low dopamine can make us feel unmotivated, down, and even numb, which can lead to issues like depression or anxiety. Dopamine helps us feel joy, stay motivated, and find meaning in daily life.
Domestic abuse can contain these components: Tension building, Abusing incident, Reconciliation (honeymoon phase), and Calm. During the reconciliation or honeymoon phase, the abuser often displays loving behavior, triggering the release of dopamine and oxytocin in the victim. This chemical response can reinforce the emotional bond and lead the victim to believe that the relationship has returned to its "real" state, drawing them back in.
By using a "dopamine menu" of culturally grounded healing activities, survivors can intentionally engage in practices that naturally boost their dopamine levels outside of the abusive relationship. This provides an alternative source of that "feel-good" reward response, reducing the pull and perceived need for the abuser's affection during the honeymoon phase. This menu includes practices, activities, and rituals that resonate with Native American values, traditions, and community support systems. This approach could assist in breaking free from the cycle of abuse and healing.
Building Healthy Neural Pathways After Domestic Violence
Over time, regularly participating in the dopamine-boosting activities on the menu can help establish new, healthy neural pathways and a sense of joy, motivation, and meaning that is independent of the abusive dynamic. This can empower survivors to recognize the manipulative nature of the honeymoon phase and break free from abuse more easily.
The culturally rooted nature of the menu also reinforces a sense of identity, community, and resilience.
This menu is meant to be adapted and personalized while respecting the cultural traditions from which these practices originate. Regular practice helps build lasting benefits, ultimately creating positive habits. When considering leaving a domestic violence relationship, it is recommended to consult with a trusted therapist or advocate for support to navigate your path safely.
