Damage to the amygdala is associated with psychiatric or anxiety disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorders, depression, phobia, and schizophrenia. This is because the amygdala is responsible for processing anxiety or fear in our limbic system, which controls or affects our emotional responses.
The amygdala is a small cluster of almond-shaped neurons located inside the temporal lobe. This is where we remember, associate, and give meaning to our emotions. Also, when we are in a fearful or life-threatening situation, the amygdala collects the information immediately. Then, it transmits the signal to the hypothalamus, which stimulates the body’s “fight or flight” instinct.
Amazingly, the amygdala can process traumatic events faster than the cerebral cortex can ever will; this means that our body’s instinct reacts to danger before we have time to think about the situation.
Furthermore, damage to the amygdala may cause problems to its cognitive functions, including:
- Acquiring new information
- Decision-making
- Creating and storing emotional memories
This condition may gravely affect your daily living, so it iss best to seek immediate treatment when symptoms occur.