How to overcome fear

How to overcome fear

Published 09.02.2024 | By Йосиф

How to overcome fear

Fear is one of the most natural human feelings, and at the same time it is also the most controversial. It is built into us as a survival mechanism, it warns us in time of approaching dangers and provokes in us an appropriate reaction for protection. But what happens when fear outgrows its useful function and begins to limit us? It can make our lives a living hell if it begins to control essential areas of our consciousness and life. Unbridled fear threatens to keep us isolated from people—including those closest to us who love us and want to see us lead healthy and fulfilling lives. It can stop us from going to work, looking to the future with hope, forming relationships.

In this article, we will look at the essence of fear, how it is formed, as well as effective methods for overcoming it.
What is fear?

Fear is an emotional response to a perceived or real threat. From a psychological perspective, it arises as a result of a complex interaction between our brain structures, experience and social environment. When faced with potential danger, the amygdala (the part of the brain responsible for emotional responses) activates the fight-or-flight response, thus preparing us to deal with the threat.

Another type of reaction – “freeze” – is also possible. It is often observed in the animal world, when an endangered species “freezes” or becomes paralyzed when a danger appears in front of it – for example, a predator. This reaction also occurs frequently in humans. Very often faced with serious fear, the brain does not know what to do, it “blocks” to a certain extent and suspends rational thinking until the danger passes. In such moments, it seems to us that every thought has escaped our mind and we are simply waiting for the emotional shock of what is happening to pass so that we can return to our normal functions.
Psychological approaches to overcoming fear

Making Sense of Fears: Understanding the roots of fear is the first step to overcoming it. It is important to analyze the situations that give rise to fear and to understand the inner beliefs that fuel it.
Relaxation techniques: Methods such as deep breathing, meditation and yoga can help reduce stress and anxiety levels associated with fear. With breathing techniques, the pulse slows down and the body stops working in “overload” mode.
Exposure therapy: Gradual exposure to the object of fear in a controlled environment can help the individual reduce feelings of fear and learn adequate responses.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This approach focuses on identifying and then changing the negative thought patterns that fuel fears.

The most common types of phobias and ways to overcome them

When we talk about fears, we can’t help but mention the phobias that are so discussed in modern society. Phobias are intense, irrational fears of specific objects, situations, or activities. Some of the more common phobias include:

Arachnophobia – fear of spiders
Acrophobia – fear of heights
Sociophobia – fear of social situations
Agoraphobia – fear of open spaces

Exposure therapy and CBT are often used to overcome phobias, and these methods allow a person to gradually adapt to the fear and develop new, healthier ways of thinking and behaving towards what provokes it.

Fear is a completely normal part of our humanity, but when it begins to limit our lives, it is essential that we learn how to manage it before it takes over our daily lives. Through self-knowledge, practicing relaxation techniques and even seeing a psychologist, we can overcome our fears and lead a more fulfilled and happy life.
Sabina Andreeva

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