MDMA, Oxytocin, & Empathy: The Neuroscientist on How Connection Rewires Your Brain | Dr. Ben Rein
Today, Kati sits down with neuroscientist Dr. Ben Rein, to dive into the social connection and the growing loneliness epidemic. Dr. Rein, author of Why Brains Need Friends, explains how your brain is fundamentally wired for interaction, why isolation is a biological stressor, and what you can do to improve your social health. In this must-watch episode, Dr. Rein explains the mechanical changes happening in your brain during isolation and clarifies why the U.S. Surgeon General has declared a loneliness epidemic. You'll learn the surprising truth about isolation and physical health—it can cause stress hormones like cortisol to rise within days and is associated with more adverse health outcomes. Dr. Rein also reveals the science behind why isolation can make people more irritable and even angry, linking it to the body's natural stress response. Kati and Dr. Rein discuss the difference between in-person and digital interactions, noting that less "lifelike" communication strips away vital social cues like eye contact, body language, and even smell, leading to fewer mood benefits. Dr. Rein introduces the concept of a "Social Diet" and social journaling—practical tools to help you identify which interactions energize you ("breath in" relationships) versus those that leave you depleted. The conversation takes fascinating turns into the role of brain chemicals like oxytocin and serotonin in social reward and the development of empathy. Plus, discover the incredible, innate ability of dogs to detect physiological stress signals and the science of how pets help children develop crucial social skills.
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Timestamps
00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Ben Rein, neuroscientist and author of Why Brains Need Friends.
02:54 - The neuroscience behind loneliness-induced anger and why isolation is treated as a stressor by the body.
05:57 - Debunking the myth: Do introverts benefit from social interaction, and in what dose?
10:48 - The evolutionary reason we are wired for social reward, and the key brain chemicals involved: dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin.
15:40 - A discussion on MDMA, serotonin depletion, and the severity of the drug's comedown.
21:11 - The shocking statistics on increasing time spent alone in modern society (36 hours more per month).
28:22 - What is "inter brain synchrony," and can it happen over a text message?.
35:47 - The power of social smells: how tears can reduce aggression and how a mother's scent affects a baby's brain synchrony.
41:51 - Why growing up with dogs helps children develop empathy and fewer conduct problems.
48:53 - The powerful therapeutic properties of oxytocin (anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective) beyond just social connection.
Ask Kati Anything ep. 284 | Your mental health podcast, with Kati Morton, LMFT
Today's guest is Dr. Ben Rein
https://www.youtube.com/@dr.benrein
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The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Viewing this content does not establish a therapist-client relationship.
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