Trend Reports
The Slow Dopamine Shift: Reclaiming Connection in a Digital World
As the media landscape continues to flood with endless content—from streaming shows and podcasts to vlogs, substacks and reels—the question arises: at what cost?
In a new research study in partnership with insights platform Ideally, Mediahub explored the fallout of digital fatigue across generations, revealing a shift toward real-life interactions. Hobbies, analogue entertainment like vinyl and print, and the desire for authentic community experiences are making a comeback. The new currency? Connection in the physical world, not just through screens.
Could media engagement become more intentional in this age of digital burnout? While people aren’t ready for a complete digital detox, slower dopamine hits might be the key to a healthier, happier society.
Download the full report to explore the three trends below:
“Australians are seeking slower, more intentional experiences to combat the effects of digital fatigue, which underlines an important emerging cultural movement. Over the past 12 months, we’ve witnessed a decline in dating apps as people switch off in favour of IRL meet-cutes, to Tiktok trends like #dopaminedetox to minimise screentime, to groundbreaking legislation limiting social media usage for young Australians.”
Linda Fagerlund
Chief Strategy Officer, ANZ Mediahub
86%
of individuals admitted to frequently reaching for digital distractions.
37%
young females are 37% more likely than the general population to report feeling happier when spending time offline.
18-34
year olds report they must set physical boundaries
to disconnect.
55+
year olds report they choose to engage in other hobbies to disconnect.
Insights powered through Ideally
