A new study in JNeurosci explains why some of us are more prone to anxiety than others.
Researchers looked at areas of the brain involved in emotional processing (specifically, the amygdala and prefrontal cortex), and found that anxious marmosets (pictured above) had higher levels of gene expression for serotonin transporters in their amygdalae.
So what did researchers do?
Considering this was a case of “serotonin cleanup proteins gone awry,” the researchers injected SSRI’s into the amygdalae of the freaked out marmosets.
And what happened? The marmosets chilled out and started acting like regular marmosets!
Of course, SSRI’s are already a first-line treatment for anxiety disorders, but this study explains why they might be helpful, and will help researchers with more precise targeting.
That’s good news.
It’s also incredibly important for you and me, my fellow Christian, to understand that our anxiety isn’t a spiritual defect. The Bible never even suggests that (even though your pastor might), and science agrees.
So take comfort and use this as another data point in reminding yourself that your anxiety isn’t a reflection of your spirituality.
Christians without anxiety disorders need to read this, too. They can find themselves judging those who do, and the truth is that — most likely — they’ve been blessed with smoother brains at birth, just like some people can jump higher than others and it has nothing to do with superior jumping-faith.
As the frequently depressed and anxious Charles Spurgeon said:
“I would not blame all those who are much given to fear, for in some it is rather their disease than their sin, and more their misfortune than their fault.
“Especially judge not the sons and daughters of sorrow. Allow no ungenerous suspicions of the afflicted, the poor, and the despondent.
Do not hastily say they ought to be more brave, and exhibit a greater faith. Ask not ‘why are they so nervous and so absurdly fearful?’ No… I beseech you, remember that you understand not your fellow man.”
[Photo: Carmem Busko, Wikipedia]
