What do Phobia, Fear, Trauma and Panic Disorders all have in common?
They can all have a negative impact on our lives. First of all it is useful to understand the difference between fear and anxiety. Fear is the emotion you experience when you believe that you are in a dangerous situation. Anxiety is what you experience leading up to what you believe is a dangerous, stressful, or threatening situation. Both anxiety and fear are automatic responses to things that we believe are a danger and threat, essentially designed to keep us alive. Because these responses are important to our survival, they occur quickly and without thought. These responses tell us when danger is present and prepare us to act to protect ourselves. When you are in a stressful or dangerous situation and experience fear and anxiety, your body goes through a number of changes some of which you may have experienced: • Your heart rate may increase. • Your vision may narrow (sometimes called “tunnel vision”). • You may notice that your muscles become tense. • You may begin to sweat. • Your
