The Survival Instinct
Have you ever wondered why humans fight so hard to survive, even in the most hopeless situations? Why don’t we just give up when faced with unbearable pain or hardship? Perhaps the answer lies deep within our subconscious.
The survival instinct must have evolved as a biological mechanism through millions of years of natural selection. Our ancestors faced life-threatening dangers daily, from wild animals to natural disasters. Those who managed to escape danger and stay safe lived longer, possibly passing on this survival-driven trait to their offspring.
If you ask a doctor, they would say our survival responses are controlled by ancient brain structures like the amygdala, hypothalamus, and brainstem. These areas are responsible for automatic reactions like the fight-or-flight response. For example, when you touch something hot, you instantly pull your hand away — often without even realizing it. This is a sign that your subconscious survival system is at work!
Even in pain, suffering, or even torture, most people cling to life. But why? Wouldn’t it be easier to just let go and die? After all, death is the same inevitable end for everyone...
However, perhaps every cell in our body is programmed to survive and heal. Pain serves as a signal urging us to escape danger or seek help. Humans also have the unique ability to imagine a better future. Even in the darkest moments, the belief that "things will get better" keeps us anchored to life.
Maybe we don’t just survive for ourselves but also for our loved ones. Emotional bonds are a powerful source of motivation when facing hardships. Our minds activate coping mechanisms like denial and hope to reduce the impact of suffering, keeping us alive despite the odds.
The desire to live is a gift shaped by millions of years of evolution. Even when our conscious reasoning fails, our subconscious continues to fight for survival.
The next time you face a challenge, remember this: You are designed to survive, endure, and thrive.
Dr. Bilinç Dolmacı
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