You probably live most days without thinking of yourself as particularly fearful. But is that just because we’ve built routines that we’re comfortable with? When it comes to really stepping out of your comfort zone, can you confidently say you would be willing to face your fears?
Recent research led by online bingo provider tombola has revealed that Brits aren’t necessarily as brave as we think we are, and some intriguing anxieties that shape many lives. So, exactly what makes us scared, and are people in some parts of the nation more fearless than others?
- What it means to be scared
You know what it feels like to be scared. Sweating palms, racing heart, glued to the spot. The cause isn’t always as dramatic or obvious, and that can make the physical sensations feel even more overwhelming. But what drives this emotion?
Being scared is a feeling of fear, fright, terror, or worry, often connected to someone or something. It occurs when we’re alarmed by a perceived danger or when we’re anxious, which can apply to real or imagined situations. This is a survival mechanism, but in our relatively safe modern lives, it’s often unhelpful, such as making us second-guess ourselves or encouraging us to avoid certain situations altogether.
- Physical danger
Many of the UK’s most common fears link directly to physical danger, although some are phobias rather than rational concerns. Heights top the list, with 34% of people surveyed placing it top. Snakes and spiders follow closely behind with 25% and 22% of the votes respectively, despite the fact you’re unlikely to encounter anything truly dangerous in everyday British life. These reactions stem from instinct rather than logic.
You can ease these fears by gradually increasing your exposure in controlled settings. Each small step helps your brain learn that the situation isn’t threatening as first assumed.
- Societal anxieties
Not all fears come from tangible threats. In fact, fear of social judgement such as being afraid of ageing is now competing with many common physical fears like enclosed spaces and visiting the dentist. This is highlighting how our fears are evolving over time as our lifestyles shift.
For example, when you stand up to speak in front of a crowd, your body reacts as though you face real danger, even though the worst outcome might be a moment of awkwardness. That fear of judgement can hold you back from sharing ideas, asking questions, or putting yourself forward for opportunities and job promotions. Talking therapies and other treatments are available to help make anxieties more manageable.
- Are some areas more fearful?
Where you live can shape what you worry about – but does it also influence how often you’re scared? The tombola research indicated that Edinburgh residents are the bravest of us all, with a quarter purporting to have no fears at all, while over 40% of Brummies admit to being afraid of heights.
These differences and trends of fears often reflect local experiences and cultural attitudes. If you grow up in a busy urban environment, you might feel more comfortable navigating crowds but less at ease in open spaces. By noticing how your surroundings influence your fears, you can better understand which ones come from habit than genuine risk.
- Why do we have fears?
Fear has deep roots in human survival. Long before modern life, it was our knowledge to avoid high cliffs, deep water or dangerous animals that kept people alive. Your brain still carries those instincts, even if your daily routine rarely exposes you to danger.
At the same time, modern life introduces new pressures. Concerns about ageing, independence and social acceptance can feel just as intense as physical threats. Your mind treats them seriously because they affect your sense of identity and security.
You can work with your fear response by acknowledging it rather than fighting it. When you notice your heart racing or your thoughts spiralling, pause and name what you’re feeling. That simple act creates space between you and the reaction, making it easier to respond calmly instead of instinctively.
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Our Editorial Team are writers and experts in their field. Their views and opinions may not always be the views of Wellbeing Magazine. If you are under the direction of medical supervision please speak to your doctor or therapist before following the advice and recommendations in these articles.
