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Difference between Fear and Anxiety
Sep
27
2011
Difference between Fear and Anxiety
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Answer #1
Fear and anxiety are state of emotions that we face in life but most people are unable to differentiate between the two words. We encounter many events in life that induce varied emotions in us. Some circumstances for instance produce feelings of happiness inside us when we receive pleasant news. Then again, there are circumstances that evoke feelings of worry and anxiety. Often, many people who are unable to differentiate the two words use them interchangeably.
Anxiety and fear are often characterized by similar symptoms, including difficulty in breathing and increased heart rate. This is the reason most people assume the two words have similar meaning. As far as psychology is concerned, anxiety and fear are two different disorders.
Simply put, fear is an emotional reaction to a threatening situation whereas anxiety is considered a psychological condition. For example, fear of driving can may be instigated when you drive on busy highways or in a dark alley. Alternatively, you may have experienced a traumatic circumstance in life such as an accident.
The main difference between the two is that, symptoms of anxiety occur even when there is no physical harm. In most cases, most people are unable to pinpoint the reasons why they are anxious whereas fear is characterized by physical symptoms such as difficulty in breathing and fast heart rate.
Unlike anxiety, people who have fear of driving can identify what instigates their fear. In contrast, those who suffer from constant worry and anxiety are helpless until their symptoms begin to affect their daily interactions and activities in the society. Anxiety for instance is known to instigate other psychological conditions like depression.
Conversely, fear can make you empowered to find ways on how to overcome it once and for all. When you can pinpoint what instigates fear, it becomes easier to find ways on how to live your life in peace.