Apprehension is a natural fear reaction, but it should not become an obstacle to flourishing.
- Apprehension manifests itself as excessive worry and constant fear that something negative will happen, which can paralyze or prevent you from taking action or making decisions.
- It generally manifests itself as avoidance, agitation, sleep disturbances, hypervigilance, or increased heart rate.
- To reduce this discomfort and take a step back, several strategies exist such as taking the time to breathe, using mindfulness, or if necessary, seeking help from a professional.
Apprehension is a feeling characterized by a diffuse fear that something negative will happen. It can impact decision-making, social relationships, but also daily well-being. However, there are strategies to manage it differently.
Start by understanding what apprehension is
Apprehension is an emotional state that is distinguished from anxiety by its intensity and its impact on life. It manifests itself as excessive worry and constant fear that something negative will happen, which can paralyze or prevent you from taking action or making decisions.
Apprehension is therefore a reaction that prepares us to avoid real dangers, but it can become problematic when it is based on a distorted perception of these dangers or when it is excessive to the point of becoming chronic.
In general, it manifests itself as avoidance, agitation, sleep disturbances, hypervigilance, or increased heart rate. Feeling these signs allows you to observe them in order to respond to them in a different way.
Apply apprehension management strategies
To reduce this discomfort and gain perspective, several approaches can be useful:
• Stop, breathe and think: Take a moment to focus on the present and think about alternatives. Can there be a favorable outcome?
• Use relaxation and mindfulness techniques: Learning techniques such as cardiac coherence breathing or mindfulness meditation can be beneficial.
• Focus on what you can change: Get involved in positive, constructive actions instead of worrying about things beyond your control.
• Generate a positive mindset: Cultivating an optimistic attitude can help moderate feelings of apprehension.
• See a professional: If the apprehension becomes too overwhelming, you can also seek help from a mental health professional.
By adopting these techniques, it is possible to reduce the influence of apprehension on a daily basis and to face your fears in order to move forward.
Find out more: “The turtle complex: Overcoming self-sabotage and daring to shine” by Anne-Claire Froger.
