Emotions are part of being human. Of the six basic emotions (joy, fear, sadness, disgust, anger and surprise), four are negative, one positive and the last one intermediate according to what it precedes.
Their expression is biologically determined and depends on brain structures. The evolution of the species has made them remain in us because they are useful for our survival.
Joy brings us happiness, but what does fear bring us? Our brains, before processing thoughts, processed emotions.
Emotions are easily accessed by the brain and their function is to perpetuate us, to allow us to pass on our genes to another generation.
Why is it normal to be afraid in a health crisis situation?
We are afraid of contagion, afraid of losing our jobs, afraid of losing our loved ones and, in short, afraid of suffering. Everyone experiences their own fears and they surface when our usual circumstances are threatened.
Fear paralyzes us, stops us, but also protects us against any situation that the mind perceives as adverse.
Why do we find it hard to think about the bad? The influence of cognitive biases
On the one hand, we have no previous patterns of reference to help us know how to act in a similar situation. In addition, the brain is an organ that is constantly working to predict future behaviors and anticipate them.
The brain likes stability and uncertainty stresses it, so we are bound to suffer more during this time of uncertainty.
On the other hand, cognitive biases are a kind of generalized error whereby we make quick, but often wrong, decisions. Thinking more about the bad than the good may give us a false sense of control, especially when uncertainty is very high.
In the end we need to regain control of our lives and return to the situation before confinement. These days are being difficult and it is normal to feel anxious, worried or uneasy. Do not resign yourself and accept your emotions.
Finally, remember that Top Doctors specialists continue to work to take care of your health, even when you are at home. Through the telemedicine service you will be able to solve your doubts without waiting.