FROM SURVIVAL TO OVERLOAD: EVOLUTIONARY MISMATCH, ANXIETY, AND THE DIGITAL ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

Anxiety disorders are increasingly recognized as complex, systemic conditions emerging from the interaction of biological vulnerability, evolutionary adaptation, and modern environmental stressors. This chapter conceptualizes anxiety not merely as a clinical syndrome but as an evolutionary mismatch in which ancient survival mechanisms operate within high-velocity digital environments. Distinguishing anxiety from fear as a sustained anticipatory response to uncertain threat, the discussion integrates neurobiological foundations including dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, maladaptive amygdala—BNST activation, and emerging evidence on the gut-brain-circadian axis. These interconnected systems illustrate how chronic stress reshapes neural circuitry and disrupts homeostatic regulation. Particular attention is given to the digital frontier, whereAI-driven technostress, continuous connectivity, and algorithmic evaluation amplify persistent threat perception among students. Finally, the chapter proposes an integrated treatment framework combining cognitive-behavioural therapy, circadian stabilization, digital hygiene, and systemic environmental reform. By situating anxiety within evolutionary, biological, and technological contexts, this chapter advances a multidisciplinary understanding of contemporary anxiety disorders.