What is the fight-or flight response?
The fight or flight response refers to our body’s reaction to danger. When our body senses danger, our body releases adrenaline. This allows our body to respond to the sense of danger. The two main types of responding to danger are referred to as fight or flight. When in a dangerous situation, our adrenaline reaction can cause us to want to overpower or defeat the treat. While this can mean a physical altercation, this can also be verbal or other responses. Meanwhile, the flight response perceives the threat and believes that we can escape danger by running away from it.
How does this relate to anxiety?
Anxiety is triggered by a real or perceived sense of danger. While this can be physical, it can also be a threat to our emotional well-being. This anxiety prompts our fight-or-flight response, and demonstrates the more physical responses to our anxiety. This can include increased heart rate, racing thoughts, upset stomach, shaking, and more. In dealing with anxiety, these symptoms can be harmful to us, as an increased heart rate does not help us to deal with a situation that causes us anxiety. For example, racing thoughts can make it difficult to focus and give a presentation.
Conclusion
While the fight-or-flight response can be helpful, it can become an issue when it causes an extended feeling of stress or excessive anger. In working to calm down the fight-or-flight response, it is important to look at relaxation techniques. This can help to lower the heart rate and help your body recognize that you are not in danger. Try working with your therapist on some mindfulness techniques to find out what works best for you.
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