reward deficiency syndrome

Reward deficiency syndrome (RDS) is a condition where the brain's reward system doesn’t function properly, leading to a decreased ability to experience pleasure from positive activities like eating, socializing, or achieving goals. This can result in cravings for excessive stimulation or substance use as the brain seeks to boost dopamine levels, which are linked to feelings of happiness and satisfaction. RDS is associated with a range of issues, including addiction, impulsivity, and mood disorders, and is thought to result from genetic, environmental, or neurochemical factors that disrupt normal reward processing.