While Donguibogam spoke of the balance of the spirit, modern medicine investigates the true nature of anxiety through the complex neurological and biochemical reactions taking place inside our brain. This condition we commonly call generalized anxiety disorder goes beyond temporary tension or worry, featuring chronic and pervasive feelings of anxiety. As if constantly carrying a time bomb that could explode at any moment, people experience excessive and uncontrollable worry about almost everything, from minor everyday concerns to vague fears about the future.
Behind this anxiety lies a complex interaction of imbalances across multiple brain regions and neurotransmitters. In particular, the amygdala of the brain serves as the emotional control tower that senses danger and feels fear, and in patients with generalized anxiety disorder, this amygdala tends to be excessively activated. In other words, it rings an alarm of danger easily, even at minor stimuli. On the other hand, the function of the prefrontal cortex, which regulates excessive amygdala reactions and aids in making rational judgments, is relatively reduced. You can compare it to a state where the brakes do not work well while the accelerator is pressed too hard.
Imbalances in neurotransmitters also play an important role. Specifically, gamma-aminobutyric acid calms the mind by inhibiting brain activity; if the function of this GABAergic system drops, feelings of anxiety can be amplified. Dysregulation of other neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine is also deeply involved in anxiety symptoms. Chronic stress disrupts the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, increasing the secretion of the stress hormone cortisol, which distorts brain function and triggers a vicious cycle that fuels anxiety even further.
These brain changes do not end with simple psychological discomfort. They lead to diverse physical symptoms such as muscle tension, chronic fatigue, indigestion such as irritable bowel syndrome, sleep disorder, and even heart palpitations or headache. Because the body stays continuously tense, immunity declines, and chronic inflammation can develop. Since generalized anxiety disorder has clear biological and neurological foundations that make it difficult to overcome through willpower alone, it is important to seek professional help rather than blaming yourself with thoughts like 'Why am I like this?' Through cognitive behavioral therapy or pharmacotherapy, you can regulate the alarm inside the brain and regain a peaceful daily routine.
