• Why is modern life causing anxiety?

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    Modern life contributes to anxiety in several significant ways:

    1. Chronic, Unfocused Fear: Arthur Brooks explains that anxiety is a byproduct of modern life where minor, chronic stressors replace the episodic, intense threats our ancestors faced. This continuous low-level threat perception, exacerbated by modern stimuli like social media, leads to a constant drip of cortisol in the brain, causing pervasive anxiety 1.

    2. Constant Uncertainty: Judson Brewer highlights that our brains struggle with the ongoing uncertainty prevalent in modern life. The digital age, with its deluge of information and misinformation, forces our brains into constant overdrive to reduce uncertainty, further promoting anxiety. This issue was notably amplified during the COVID-19 pandemic, which added multiple layers of uncertainty 2 3.

    3. Social Comparisons and Isolation: Anders Hansen points out that social media and the constant comparison to others, not just within a small community but globally, make individuals feel inadequate. This sense of not belonging can simulate the life-threatening exclusion experienced by our ancestors, fostering anxiety. Additionally, social media use replaces real-life interactions, leading to social isolation, which also heightens anxiety levels 4.

    4. Existential Factors: Anna Yusim discusses existential causes of anxiety, such as the quest for purpose, fear of death, and feelings of aloneness. These deep-rooted concerns are part of the human condition, but modern life's rapid changes and uncertainties magnify them 5.

    5. Physiological and Lifestyle Factors: Ellen Vora emphasizes overlooked physiological causes, including blood sugar swings and poor circadian rhythms due to excessive blue light exposure. These factors can directly contribute to anxiety by mimicking stress responses in the body 6.

    Recognizing these factors helps in understanding why modern life can be a fertile ground for anxiety, and addressing them can aid in reducing its pervasive impact.

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