Untangle Unwinding Anxiety: Break the Cycle of Worry and Fear. With Dr. Judson Brewer.
Apr 22, 2025
Judson Brewer, a renowned psychiatrist and neuroscientist, dives deep into the intricate relationship between anxiety and habit formation. He shares insights from his research and personal experiences, illustrating how anxiety can become a habitual response. The discussion emphasizes strategies like mindfulness and curiosity for breaking these cycles. Brewer also introduces innovative tools, including an app designed to help manage anxiety and enhance self-awareness, leading to healthier behavioral patterns.
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Brewer's Anxiety Origin Story
- Judson Brewer experienced panic attacks during psychiatric residency, driving his interest in anxiety treatment.
- A patient's insight on anxiety triggering eating led him to explore habit loops for anxiety.
Anxiety as Habitual Survival Loop
- Anxiety arises when the brain can't predict a safe future, triggering survival mechanisms.
- Worry, a mental behavior, ironically makes the thinking part of the brain go offline, worsening anxiety.
Anxiety Habits Affect Daily Life
- Habits range from helpful to harmful, including texting, social media, and overeating.
- Anxiety can drive compensatory habits that worsen itself, showing that all behaviors form habit loops.
