ADHD, Dopamine and the Magic of Loud Music

The other day, my brother told me something that got me thinking: he finds listening to very loud music really helpful for his ADHD. Not just enjoyable, but useful. It helps him focus, regulate his energy, and generally get through the day without feeling like his brain is a browser with 50 tabs open.

This makes total sense when you understand how ADHD and dopamine work.

ADHD and the Dopamine Shortage

ADHD isn’t just about being “easily distracted.” It’s about dopamine. Specifically, not having enough of it in the right places at the right times. Dopamine is the brain’s motivation chemical. It helps with focus, impulse control, and that feeling of I actually want to do this thing. But in ADHD brains, dopamine transmission can be a little… unreliable.

So, what do people with ADHD do? They find ways to hack their own dopamine system. This is why ADHDers are drawn to things that feel stimulating. Video games, caffeine, fast-paced conversations, risky decisions, hyperfixations on niche topics. Anything that gives the brain a nice little dopamine hit.

And guess what’s a huge dopamine booster?

Loud. Music.

Music naturally releases dopamine. Studies have shown that your brain gets a hit of it when a song you love builds up to the drop or reaches that really satisfying chorus.

The Science Backs It Up

Research on music therapy for ADHD has found that rhythmic, structured music can help improve attention and executive function. Some studies even suggest that music can mimic the effects of stimulant medication by boosting dopamine levels.

You do need to be careful with your ears as they are sensitive to loud noise, but if anyone gives you the side-eye for blasting music at 8 AM, just tell them you’re optimising your dopamine levels. Sounds scientific enough to shut down any complaints.