“Our nervous system is intricately designed to sense and respond to fear, a crucial survival mechanism. Fear helps us stay vigilant and avoid potential dangers, whether it’s the unsettling sounds we hear alone at night or the imminent threat of a growling animal. However, when fear manifests in the absence of real danger, it can severely impact our well-being. This phenomenon, known as fear generalization, often plagues individuals who have experienced severe stress or trauma, leading to conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Despite its prevalence, the underlying mechanisms of generalized fear have remained largely elusive.”