Exhilarating Voyage Through the World of Science by Eva Holland in Nerve Magazine

In her compelling book, "Nerve", author Eva Holland delves into the complex and intriguing world of fear, offering a nuanced view of this necessary but often misunderstood emotion.

Holland, a seasoned writer, seamlessly blends personal narrative with scientific inquiry, providing an engaging and relatable account of the nature of fear. Her primary focus is on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a condition where a previous experience lodges in the mind and reasserts itself at inappropriate moments, obviating the brain's capacity to tell the difference between a risk and a safe situation.

Holland's personal journey is deeply rooted in her fear of losing her mother, a fear that was tragically realised. This primary fear serves as a backdrop for her exploration of PTSD and various treatments, including Rapid Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro, and the controversial use of propranolol to dampen traumatic memories.

EMDR, according to Holland, reduces "flashbacks, nightmares" and "panic" in PTSD cases, offering a glimmer of hope for those struggling with the condition. However, the use of propranolol, a beta blocker, is a more contentious topic. Psychologist Dr. Merel Kindt believes fears can be malleable, and that you can open them up and rework them using 40 milligrams of propranolol.

Neuroscientist Antonio Damasio distinguishes between feelings and emotions, with emotions being quantifiable bodily responses. Fear, according to Holland, is a natural part of the human experience. It travels from the ears to the brain, then from the thalamus to the amygggdala to the hypothalamus, triggering a fear response.

Holland also investigates the "structure" of the fearful brain, as suggested by psychiatrist Edna Foa. This structure, according to Foa, links a stimulus to a fear reaction. Repeated exposure, Holland explains, helps build a new structure that transmits the message that you can make it through a fear-inducing situation.

Holland's book is not limited to PTSD and her personal experiences. She also delves into various phobias, including her own fear of heights and driving. The book provides accounts of individuals who have faced extreme fears, offering a broad perspective on the human response to danger.

Moreover, Holland's book touches on the cultural aspects of fear, examining how different societies perceive and manage risk. For instance, in Southeast Asia's Hmong culture, fear is embodied in a nightmare demon called dab tsog that can cause sudden unexplained nocturnal death syndrome (SUND).

In conclusion, "Nerve" offers a compelling exploration of fear, providing insights into its neuroscience, personal impacts, and cultural implications. Holland's writing style, characterized by its engagement and relatability, makes complex scientific concepts digestible for the average reader, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in understanding fear and its role in the human experience.

Exhilarating Voyage Through the World of Science by Eva Holland in Nerve Magazine