Blog Post One
The F-Word
The ever so infamous F word, in the clinical arena this known as FEAR. Fear is a common emotion, and when it shows up it is good to know how to recognize it. Fear is normal. Fear often holds us back or propels us forward. I wish we talked more about fear. Fear shows up masked in so many different ways. We don’t always recognize fear for what it is; it is a driving force that affects each person differently. Sometimes fear looks like insecurity, or is shows up in the physical sense, maybe in the form of a stomach ache, a headache or sweatiness, among other physical symptoms. Fear has an interesting driving force for people and animals alike. Our ancestors used fear to keep them alive, if it was used right.
Fear is a physical response, think fight or flight, and of course “freeze” , The 3 F’s is our reaction when we perceive something not being “right”, or when we are engaged in something we believe will cause us harm. Physical fear is rather straight forward but emotional fear is more complex. Emotional fear is highly personalized to the subject, it affects the chemistry in our brain that sends a signal that there is danger and instantly a physical response follows. Emotional fear is not always rational. In fact it can be confusing. For some is leaves them feeling tired, exhausted and for other it can be considered “fun” , especially for those thrill seekers out here.
Fear should not be overlooked. Fear is hard-wired to make us alert for a reason. Learn your own response to fear, knowing your own pattern provides you awareness and allows you to take safety precautions. If you are the type that runs/flight, then know your exits wherever you are and if you are ready to fight then it would be important to have your pepper spray available in an easy accessible place and if or are you are the freeze type, then own a whistle or have a preset emergency button on your phone.
Fear is not a weakness, it is common and it should be acknowledged and if it you find that fear is present and persists and/or causes you consistent and problematic symptoms then you should talk to your doctor. Anxiety disorders are common and understanding what is happening in your own life and in your own body and it is key to a healthier version of you.