5 reasons why we are afraid of death

The fear of death is always present to some extent, since human beings tend to survive by instinct itself. Next, we will talk about the main reasons why this fear originates.

The fear of death is a common and natural reaction to the awareness that living, which is all we know, ends at some point. However, in some cases, this fear is so intense that it significantly affects quality of life and the ability to function normally.

If the fear of dying is so pronounced that it interferes with routine, it is advisable to seek help from a mental health professional. In other cases, it is considered within the normal range. In any case, the question arises: why is this fear so present in people? Let’s investigate while reading.

The fear of death is the most unjustified of all fears, because there is no risk that you will not like what happens after you die, since you simply will not be there to experience it.

~Richard Dawkins~

Reasons why the fear of death arises

According to a work published in Frontiers in Psychology, Death is understood as a basic reality of life, while fear derives from uncertainty about life after death. or events that may occur after death. This is an anxiety called thanatophobia and is not only limited to the death itself, but also to the process it would involve (Sinof, 2017).

Why do these fears occur? The following are the basic reasons that trigger the fear of dying.

1. Terror of the unknown

The most common thing is that the fear of dying is due to ignorance about what happens after earthly life.. It is possible that for some people this uncertainty generates apprehension and anxiety; They are afraid of going through a new experience and not knowing if they will be able to overcome it successfully.

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He fear of the unknown It is an instinctive and natural response dating back to our primitive ancestors. In the past, when survival depended on the ability to predict and avoid potential dangers, uncertainty and the unknown were especially threatening. As a result, the brain evolved to be more prone to caution and aversion toward what is unknown.

Additionally, past experiences are likely to influence this fear. If someone had negative experiences with new situations, it is possible that they feel more fearful of other similar circumstances in the future.

2. Rejection of loss of control

The feeling that you are losing control over your life is another factor in the fear of dying. In fact, Death is something that cannot be avoided and, furthermore, it is possible to occur at any time. Therefore, the impact of one’s own will in this situation is very limited.

Control is a basic human need, because it helps us navigate the world and make decisions that benefit us. Lack of control translates into helplessness and helplessness faced with scenarios that seem threatening. This generates, in many cases, stress and anxiety.

3. Concern for the fate of close people

Sometimes, Dying brings fear, due to concern about the impact that one’s death has on our environment. This has to do with objective reasons; for example, when a mother or father of young children fears what their fate will be if they are missing.

This fear is also linked to the desire not to harm loved ones. Likewise, it is possible to associate fear with loss or abandonment, although this is experienced unconsciously. If someone feels that they could harm a loved one, they may develop a fear that said person will decide to walk away or break the emotional bond.

4. Suffering and agony

Human beings are afraid of physical suffering because it is an unpleasant and, often, uncontrollable experience. That’s why, The idea of dying in a painful or agonizing way is a source of fear and anxiety, highlights a work of Frontiers in Medicine.

There are cases in which people experience great suffering before dying and this, obviously, causes fear in those who think about their own death.

Most people would like to have a peaceful departure, but, since this is impossible to predict, it is logical that there is a latent fear that this wish will not be fulfilled and, on the contrary, great physical suffering will be consciously experienced. . It is normal to feel some anxiety about the possibility of this happening.

5. The idea of nothingness or the “beyond”

Some people are afraid of dying because They link this experience with the idea that dying is the end of everything done or achieved in life, and that there will be nothing more after that. Worrying about absolute nothingness generates anxiety, since it implies the total absence of existence, thought, emotion and consciousness. It is not easy to conceive or assimilate this idea.

In addition, Those who are believers may have a frightening idea of the afterlifeas reviewed in Omega: Journal of Death and Dying. In many religions the idea is raised that after death there will be a judgment of the actions that were carried out in life. Therefore, there may be a fear of being “condemned” or going through afflictions in the “hereafter.”

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Is it possible to mitigate the fear of death?

You never completely stop being afraid of death. However, This fear can be rationalized through a personal process that requires time and reflection.

Thinking about death, living in the present, talking about your fears, seeking professional help, and practicing mindfulness are strategies that help you overcome your fears and live fully.