Anxiety, in its purest form, is simply the brain’s natural warning system. It’s there to help us spot threats, anticipate problems, and stay alive. Without it, our ancestors would’ve strolled straight into predators or off cliffs while admiring the scenery. A bit of worry sharpens focus.
At its most basic level, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is simply the brain’s habit system trying to protect you — and completely overdoing it. The mind spots potential danger, feels a surge of discomfort, and attempts to neutralise that discomfort by performing a ritual or mental routine.
Narcissism isn’t, as many believe, simply about self-love. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. It’s a defensive system built to protect the self from ever having to face feelings of inadequacy, shame, or vulnerability. At its root, narcissism is the brain saying:
At its core, depression is the brain’s shutdown mechanism. When life feels too overwhelming, too painful, or too pointless to engage with, the mind, in its backwards wisdom, pulls the emotional plug.
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), despite the clunky name, is less about “deficit” and more about the brain’s regulation system failing to balance attention, impulse, and motivation. In simple terms: the system that tells the brain when to focus, how long to focus, and what deserves attention — is faulty.