The Neuropsychology of Anxiety

The neuropsychology of anxiety involves how our brain processes fear and stress. When faced with perceived threats, the amygdala, a brain region involved in emotion, activates and triggers a fight-or-flight response. This can lead to heightened alertness, increased heart rate, and other physical symptoms. The prefrontal cortex, responsible for reasoning and decision-making, may struggle to regulate these intense feelings. Additionally, neurotransmitters like serotonin and cortisol play roles in mood regulation, affecting how we experience anxiety. Overall, anxiety is a complex interplay of brain structures and chemicals responding to stressors in our environment.