Emotions: hardwired tools from our evolutionary past

Since the dawn of humanity, emotions have been integral to our survival, guiding our ancestors* through a world filled with imminent threats. Fear prompted quick reactions to danger, joy encouraged behaviours that strengthened social bonds, and disgust helped prevent contact with harmful substances.

These primitive emotional responses are hardwired into our brains, offering rapid, instinctual reactions to our environment. While these responses remain invaluable in critical situations, such as encountering a wild animal or reacting to sudden threats like fires, modern challenges often involve complex social and personal dynamics. These can include managing academic demands, coping with interpersonal conflict, navigating work-related stress, dealing with health issues, and striving for personal growth amidst societal pressures.

When triggered by modern challenges, our innate emotional responses can make us feel unequipped and overwhelmed. Viewing these reactions as abnormal only amplifies our distress. It is essential to recognise their natural and instinctive nature. By understanding their manifestation in our brain and body, and recognising their intended functions, we can learn to accept, welcome, and use them.

To read the rest of the article I have written for Brighton and Hove Psychotherapy, visit their website.