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Anxiety-Where Does It Come From?


It’s 2 a.m., and you’re awake—palms sweaty, heart racing. You’re worried about your job, your aging parents, your health, and your relationship.


Why do some people struggle with life’s challenges while others handle them with calm?


A person might have a genetic predisposition to anxiety (nature), but whether they actually develop an anxiety disorder can depend on their life experiences (nurture).


For instance, someone might be born with a tendency to worry. Still, if they grow up in a supportive environment, they might not develop severe anxiety.

On the other hand, a stressful or traumatic childhood might trigger anxiety in someone who is genetically predisposed.


Imagine you are preparing for a big test.


-Genetics: If your parents were also anxious about tests, you might naturally feel more anxious.

-Biology: Your brain’s amygdala triggers a stress response, making you feel on edge.

-Psychology: If you’ve failed a test before, you might worry more about failing again.

-Environment: If your home is noisy and stressful, you might find it harder to concentrate and feel calm.

-Evolution: Your body’s response is meant to help you focus and prepare, but if it’s too strong, it becomes unhelpful anxiety.


By understanding these sources, it becomes clearer why anxiety happens and how it can affect different people in various ways.


Source:The Anxiety & Phobia Workbook-Edmund J. Bourne

Photo by Michael Heise on Unsplash




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