Our Nervous System Under the Microscope: Exploring Anxiety

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, anxiety has become a frequent companion for many. Feeling anxious from time to time is a normal response to stressful or challenging situations. However, when anxiety becomes excessive, persistent, and interferes with our daily activities, it is important to understand what is happening in our nervous system in order to address it effectively.

Delving into the stress response:

To understand anxiety, it is essential to know the body's natural response to stress, known as the fight-or-flight response. This response, orchestrated by our sympathetic nervous system, is activated in the face of situations perceived as threatening.

In this state, our body releases a cascade of hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, which trigger a series of physiological changes:

• Increased heart rate and blood pressure: Our body prepares to "fight" or "flee" the perceived threat.

• Muscle tension: Muscles tense up to prepare for physical action.

• Rapid breathing: We increase our oxygen intake to meet energy demands.

• Sweating: The body cools down to regulate body temperature.

• Dilated pupils: We enter a state of heightened visual alertness.

The role of the central nervous system:

The central nervous system, composed of the brain and spinal cord, plays a crucial role in modulating the stress response. The thalamus, a region of the brain, acts as a relay center, processing sensory information and sending it to the amygdala, known as the brain's fear center.

The amygdala evaluates the perceived threat and, if it deems it real, sends signals to other parts of the brain, such as the hippocampus, which regulates memory, and the prefrontal cortex, responsible for decision-making and behavior control.

Anxiety as an exaggerated response:

In the case of anxiety, the stress response is activated excessively or in situations that do not represent a real threat. This can be due to various factors, such as genetic predisposition, traumatic experiences, or chemical imbalances in the brain.

When anxiety becomes chronic, it can manifest in a variety of physical and emotional symptoms, such as:

• Restlessness or feeling "nervous"

• Difficulty concentrating

• Irritability

• Sleep problems

• Sweating

• Tremors

• Palpitations

• Difficulty breathing

• Negative and obsessive thoughts

Seeking help and coping strategies:

If you experience frequent anxiety that interferes with your daily life, it is important to seek professional help. A psychologist or psychiatrist can help you understand the root of your anxiety and develop strategies to manage it effectively.

Remember that anxiety does not have to control you. By understanding how your nervous system works and seeking professional help, you can learn to manage anxiety and live a fuller and more peaceful life.