Why do we feel afraid? Understand the scientific explanation for body reactions right now
Although fear is considered an uncomfortable feeling, it is essential for survival. Accelerated wrist, sweat in the hands, cold in the belly … these physical reactions are part of a complex defense mechanism, built through human evolution.
Primitive and necessary emotion
Throughout history, fear was decisive for the conservation of life. Animals and humans who could identify and avoid risks were more likely to survive. Faced with a sense of threat, fear causes the response to escape the danger, dodge or fight against it.
When we are afraid, the body is alerted. Cardiac frequency and breathing increase, the muscles contract and there is a redirection of energy for fast actions. Blood flows in greater quantities for vital organs and muscles, preparing the body to escape or fight.
The chemistry of fear
The physiological response to fear begins in Amigdala, a brain structure responsible for coding emotions. From it, the hypothalamus triggers the pituitary gland, which releases ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone). This stimulates the release of adrenaline and cortisol – substances that increase blood pressure, blood sugar levels and provide quick energy to the muscles.
In addition, the release of catecholamines, such as epinephrine and norepinephrine, directly affects organs such as heart, lungs and even the digestive system, causing symptoms such as dry mouth and nausea.
Other brain areas are also activated. Tálamo filters sensory stimuli, the sensory cortex interprets this information, the Hippocampus contextualizes the threat and the prefrontal cortex helps to regulate the intensity of the response. These regions help to understand if the response to fear is real and justified or if we may have reacted exaggeratedly.
The emotions are not bad
We don’t always react to run or attack. Sometimes the initial response to fear is immobility. This is because, in some situations, standing can be the safest strategy. Studies have discovered that the “freezing” releases endorphin, which calms the body and also relieves pain.
As underlined by the article published by Autonomous National University of Mexico (Unam) in collaboration with the National Disaster Prevention Center (CenaPORD), Fear and phobia are different. While the first is a natural reaction, the second appears when there is a significant interference in the person’s routine. In this case, seeking psychological support is fundamental.
Furthermore, as described by the research, there is no “good” or “bad” emotion. Everyone performs important functions for human adaptation. The essential thing is to know how to recognize them and, if necessary, look for healthy strategies to face them.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
