Anxiety Through the Centuries: A Deeper Look at Its Evolution and Current Pressures

When we look back over the past 100 years, anxiety stands out as an increasingly prominent psychological state, yet it wasn't always recognized or acknowledged in the same way. This article aims to explore the historical context of anxiety, its connections to depression, and the evolving factors that contribute to heightened levels of anxiety in modern times.

The Evolution of Anxiety: From Ancient Times to the Present

Historically, anxiety has not been a new feeling but one that has existed throughout human history. These feelings were often linked to more immediate concerns such as securing food, clothing, and warmth. In ancient times, individuals who displayed sensitivity, nervousness, or awkwardness were perhaps more easily identified, leading to a broader understanding of these emotions. Even as far back as 10,000 years ago, symptoms related to anxiety were recognized, albeit under different names and with varying cultural interpretations.

Now, in the 21st century, anxiety is on the rise. According to recent studies, anxiety disorders affect approximately 284 million people globally. This exponential increase can be attributed to the increased levels of stress and pressure that modern life imposes. These pressures stimulate the right brain, the part of our brain often associated with emotional processing, cognitive distortions, and flight-or-fight responses. This overstimulation can hinder the left brain, which is associated with logic, positive thinking, and problem-solving. As a result, the accumulated stressors feed into a cycle that can manifest as anxiety.

Anxiety and Depression: Threats to our Emotional Well-Being

Anxiety and depression are closely intertwined, and symptoms of one often accompany the other. Historically, depression was referred to as melancholia, a condition characterized by persistent sadness. The overwhelming emotion in melancholia was considered to be sadness, and the attendant anxiety often went unrecognized as a component of the overall depressive state. It is only recently, with the advancement of psychological research and diagnostic tools, that these co-morbid conditions are better understood and thus treated.

The Impact of Modern Life on Anxiety

Modern society, with its fast-paced technological advancements, information overload, and constant demands, has placed unprecedented pressures on individuals. The availability of instant gratification through social media and the constant need to meet performance expectations in work and life can contribute to higher levels of anxiety. Additionally, the normalization of stress and the lack of clear boundaries between work and personal life exacerbate the problem.

EGMi Theory: A New Perspective on Addressing Modern Anxiety

Research and new theories on the nature of anxiety, such as EGMi (Electro Magnetic Imbalance) faulty right brain theory, offer a fresh perspective on how to address the growing issue of anxiety. According to this theory, anxiety arises from an imbalance in brain function where the right brain, responsible for emotional responses, is overactivated, while the left brain, associated with logic and problem-solving, is underutilized. By focusing on practices that maximize left-brain usage, such as mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and neurofeedback, individuals can potentially reduce their anxiety levels and live more balanced lives.

Conclusion: The Journey Towards Balanced Emotional Health

From ancient times to the present, the experience of anxiety has evolved alongside our societal and technological advancements. While anxiety was once a more subtle emotional state, modern pressures have intensified it to the point where it is now one of the leading mental health challenges of our time. By understanding the historical context and current factors influencing anxiety, we can work towards developing more effective strategies for addressing and treating it. The EGMi theory and its practices offer a promising approach to alleviating the suffering caused by modern-day anxiety by fostering greater balance and harmony in brain function.