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Updated: May 13, 2026
10:51
Real-time fMRI Biofeedback Targeting the Orbitofrontal Cortex for Contamination Anxiety
Published on: January 20, 2012
The breathing conundrum-interoceptive sensitivity and anxiety.
1University of California, San Diego, California; Veterans Affairs San Diego Health Care System, San Diego, CA 92093, USA. mpaulus@ucsd.edu
Depression and Anxiety
|March 8, 2013
Summary
Breathing patterns are linked to anxiety disorders, with altered breathing potentially serving as a marker and treatment target. Interoceptive interventions focusing on breathing regulation show promise for managing anxiety.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Historically, cognitive and affective functions dominated brain research.
- The brain's primary role in regulating bodily functions, including interoception, is increasingly recognized.
- Complex emotional processes are influenced by the processing and regulation of somatic states.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the relationship between breathing and anxiety disorders.
- To explore altered breathing patterns and perception in anxiety.
- To examine breathing as a potential physiological marker and treatment target for anxiety.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical and experimental research studies.
- Analysis of the association between anxiety disorders and breathing dysfunctions.
- Examination of interoceptive interventions for anxiety.
Main Results:
- Several anxiety disorders are linked to altered breathing and its perception.
- Breathing dysfunctions are associated with anxiety.
- Altered breathing may serve as a physiological marker for anxiety.
Conclusions:
- Breathing plays a crucial role in the brain's regulation of bodily functions and emotional states.
- Altered breathing patterns are significantly associated with anxiety disorders.
- Interoceptive interventions targeting breathing offer a promising avenue for anxiety treatment.
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