PTSD

What happens to the body when we experience FEAR?

What happens to the body when we experience FEAR?

The fear response starts in a region of the brain called the amygdala (the ‘emotional’ brain). The almond-shaped amygdala is located in the anterior portion of the temporal lobe, taking up less than 1% of the volume of the human brain. So tiny, yet so powerful! It is that part, which helps you take in and respond to emotions. When fear arises or where danger is perceived, the amygdala immediately presses the panic button, ensuring to keep you safe. The system works particularly fast and the processing is completely subconscious.

Physically, the body is flooded with adrenaline and all non-essential functions stop running at full strength. When these systems are not working properly for extended periods of time, health issues often occur.