We all say we want peace, calm, and stability. But if you’re being honest—what really grabs your attention when you scroll through social media?
The fight.
The clapback.
The breakup.
The drama.
Whether it’s a celebrity scandal, a heated group chat, or neighbourly gossip, drama pulls us in—fast. Meanwhile, peaceful, calm content barely gets a glance. So why does your brain love drama so much?
Let’s break it down.
1. Your Brain Is Addicted to Emotional Highs
One reason we’re drawn to drama is that it triggers intense emotions—anger, shock, jealousy, excitement. These emotions release powerful brain chemicals like dopamine and adrenaline, giving you that “rush” feeling.
It’s not that you love negativity—you just love the feeling. Drama spikes your hormones. Peace? Not so much.
In fact, calm and stability are processed as “boring” by the brain. This explains why you can’t stop watching influencer beef or bingeing messy reality TV.
2. Your Brain Is Wired to Spot Conflict and Danger
Our brains still operate with a primitive survival mechanism—always scanning for threats.
Back in the day, noticing danger was key to staying alive. So now, your brain highlights drama and chaos more than serenity. That’s why you’ll remember one loud argument but forget ten peaceful moments.
It’s not just gossip—it’s evolution.
3. Social Comparison Makes Drama Juicier
Watching drama lets us compare ourselves to others—especially when it’s messy. “At least I’m not that dramatic.” “I’d never act like that.”
This kind of comparison boosts our self-esteem. That’s why people love celebrity gossip, influencer scandals, and even reality TV drama.
Case in point: I used to swear I didn’t like reality shows—until one Sunday, I got hooked on Real Housewives of Lagos. By episode 3, I was texting my friend, “How could Sophia lie about owning a boat? Na wa!”
4. Drama Is Passive; Peace Takes Effort
Here’s the truth: peace requires presence.
To enjoy calm, you need to be still, intentional, and self-aware. That takes work. Drama, on the other hand, is passive. You just scroll, watch, react—and repeat.
That’s why it’s easier to binge toxic shows or stay glued to gossip threads than meditate or journal. Drama gives you cheap dopamine. Peace gives you growth.
5. You Might Be Addicted to Drama Without Realizing It
If you constantly chase heated conversations, messy breakups, or viral clapbacks, you might be addicted to emotional chaos. The highs and lows mimic the effects of a drug—making your brain crave the next hit.
This can affect how you navigate friendships, relationships, and even how you consume news and social media.
So… Can You Retrain Your Brain?
Yes, you can.
Start small.
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Go for a walk without your phone.
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Journal your thoughts.
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Practise deep breathing.
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Follow accounts that promote calm and mindfulness.
Peace may feel dull at first, but with practice, your brain can learn to enjoy it. And over time, you’ll start choosing peace over chaos—not because it’s easier, but because it makes you stronger.
Drama is loud, addictive, and easy.
But peace? Peace is powerful.
And your brain can fall in love with it—if you let it.