Professor Melissa Bateson, an expert in ethology, explains the biological functions of anxiety, its evolutionary importance, and how it prepares humans and animals to detect and respond to threats.
The conversation covers the smoke detector principle, the optimal threshold for anxiety responses, and the potential impact of modern environments on anxiety levels.
The episode also delves into how understanding animal behaviour can offer insights into human mental health.
Please note that this show does not constitute medical advice and is not a replacement for seeking professional help. You can find out more about the show and get signposting to support on our website livelymindspod.com
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https://www.bio.link/livelyminds 00:00 Introduction to Lively Minds Podcast
00:21 Meet Professor Melissa Bateson
01:04 Understanding Ethology and Human Behavior
01:58 Evolutionary Basis for Anxiety
05:43 The Smoke Detector Principle
06:56 When Anxiety Becomes a Problem
18:00 Biological Perspective on Anxiety Thresholds
23:46 Modern Threats and Anxiety
27:54 Learning from Animals
29:26 Conclusion and Farewell
