Introduction to anxiety

The sensations we experience in an anxious situation are designed to alert and activate us. They are normal and part of our body’s natural response mechanism to a perceived threat. Anxiety helps us prepare for real danger, such as crossing a busy street. It can also help us perform at our best and motivate us to study for an exam or practice for a big game.

When we experience anxiety, it triggers our “fight-flight” response and prepares our body to react. For instance, our heart beats faster to pump blood to our muscles, so we have the energy to run away or fight off danger. Without it, we would not survive. We need some anxiety as part of our daily lives.