What is the Origin of Amygdala Hyperactivity?

The term derives from the anatomical name of the structure, the "amygdala," which is Greek for 'almond,' due to its shape. "Hyperactivity" is a compound term from Greek hyper (over) and Latin activitas (action). The concept is central to modern neuroscience and psychiatric models, linking specific brain regions to emotional dysregulation.

What is the Mechanism of Amygdala Hyperactivity?

Hyperactivity results from an imbalance in the neurocircuitry connecting the amygdala with the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. Increased excitatory input or decreased inhibitory control, often mediated by neurotransmitters like glutamate and GABA, drives this heightened state. Chronic stress and elevated glucocorticoid levels can structurally and functionally remodel the amygdala, lowering the threshold for triggering fear and anxiety responses.

Amygdala Hyperactivity ∞ Area

Amygdala Hyperactivity

Meaning

A state characterized by an elevated, persistent level of neural firing within the amygdala, a critical limbic structure. This physiological over-activation is often correlated with heightened emotional responses, particularly fear and anxiety, and represents a core component of maladaptive stress processing. Clinically, it reflects an exaggerated threat detection and response system within the brain.