During this talk, Peter provided an overview of the diagnostic categories related to anxiety, describing the common characteristics and symptoms of modern psychological understanding regarding anxiety disorders, which are at an epidemic level in this culture. This was followed by descriptions of how the cultivation of mindfulness and lovingkindness provide ways to alleviate or at least reduce anxiety. After the descriptions, those attending asked questions or made comments about the topic.
Next week’s discussion will focus on depression and how Buddhist practices can provide a buffer against depressive episodes.
Following this post is a document containing the notes Peter prepared for this talk. Part of the document provides a more in-depth description of significant anxiety disorders from a contemporary psychological perspective.