Nerve

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A personal story about confronting and overcoming fears in the wake of grief, this narrative explores the liberating science of fear. In 2015, Eva Holland faced her greatest fear when her mother suffered a stroke and passed away unexpectedly. As shock and grief faded, Holland discovered the freedom that comes from confronting fears. She began to reflect on how her fears had previously limited her and questioned the possibility of moving beyond them. This exploration led her to investigate the science of fear, addressing universal and personal inquiries: Why do we experience fear? What causes phobias, and how are they linked to anxiety disorders? Does her fear of heights relate to her inability to dance? (Surprisingly, yes.) Can fear be detected by smell? (Yes.) Why does fear spread through groups like a virus, affecting collective safety? Most importantly, is there a cure for fear, and does 'facing our fears' serve as that remedy? Throughout her journey, Holland meets scientists developing a pill to erase fear from traumatic memories, seeks out individuals with a rare condition that prevents fear, and confronts her own fears, including skydiving. As fear remains a pervasive human experience, this exploration offers readers a personal, humorous, and well-researched look at the science of facing fears.