Fight, Flight or Freeze- Anxiety Explained

Starting a new job can cause anxiety. The first day of school also leads to anxiety. Meeting new people can be anxiety-inducing. Taking a test or giving a presentation can also cause anxiety. Anxiety is a normal reaction to life events. It is a feeling of fear about what is to come. It is our body’s natural reaction to stressful events and situations. Typically, it comes and goes depending on the events and does not typically interfere with our daily functioning.

Historically, anxiety served a purpose. It alerted us to any danger in our environment. It helped our bodies to prepare for the danger, by fighting, running away (flight), or staying still (freeze). For example, it help us to react when we are faced with a tiger or big brown bear. Essentially anxiety helps with self preservation and keeps us from harm. It’s the body’s natural reaction to dangerous situations.

We know that some people are predisposed to anxiety. As well, certain thoughts, situations, and events, including traumatic experiences can make anxiety overwhelming and quite intense. Certain triggers can cause anxiety. In these situations, anxiety becomes a problem. We are NOT in real and immediate danger. Yet, our brain is signaling that we are. And because of anxiety we are incapable of functioning in our everyday life.

When anxiety is high and takes hold, it prevents us from doing certain activities or tasks. We avoid certain things like taking an elevator, taking an airplane, going to school or even leaving home. In such cases, anxiety no longer serves a protective role. It has become quite debilitating.

Understanding why we feel anxious is crucial. Recognizing our body’s physiological response to stress is often the first step towards treating anxiety. This excellent video, produced by Anxiety Canada, explains the underlying basis of anxiety. I hope you find it helpful. For further information or treatment of anxiety, please feel free to contact me.