

Anxiety gives you an advantage. Unlock it with neuroplasticity | Wendy Suzuki
9 snips Aug 21, 2025
Dr. Wendy Suzuki, a neural science and psychology professor at NYU, redefines anxiety as a unique superpower that can enhance productivity and empathy. She discusses how anxiety plays a protective role in our lives, urging listeners to harness it through neuroscience-backed strategies. Drawing on her personal experiences, she reflects on how overcoming anxiety has shaped her teaching approach and deepened her connection with students. Listen in to discover how to turn anxiety into fuel for a flow state and unlock its transformative potential.
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Anxiety as Protective Emotion
- Anxiety is a normal, protective human emotion that evolved to keep us safe from danger.
- It exists on a wide spectrum from mild everyday anxiety to clinical levels that require medical help.
Negativity Bias Amplifies Anxiety
- Negativity bias is our brain's safety mechanism making us focus more on negatives.
- This bias can exacerbate anxiety by making negative thoughts feel overwhelming.
Brain Regions in Anxiety
- The amygdala activates anxiety and fear, while the prefrontal cortex helps calm and control it.
- High anxiety can shut down the prefrontal cortex, worsening the situation.