Navigating the Anxiety Highways Neurobiological and Treatment Differences between Amygdala-Focused Anxiety and Left-Cortex-Focused Anxiety

Authors

  • Andy R Brown The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
  • Mallory Hardesty The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
  • Bethany Balette The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
  • Zahra Nafar Yorkville University

Abstract

The feelings of anxiety resonate through the amygdala; however, there are two separate neural networks that directly impact and exacerbate anxiety.  The ebullient amygdala has stored sensed-based memories in its lateral nucleus.  The sense-based memories allow for split second reactions designed to protect the individual.  The cortex has limited pathways to the amygdala, but the pathways that are connected can encourage different types of anxiety that impact the entire person.  Understanding these two neural pathways can aid clinicians in devising individualized treatment for anxiety.     

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Published

2020-10-02