Health and Me

Supriya Ramesh

How Sedation Helps People Feel Less Nervous At The Dentist

Credits: Canva

If the thought of a dental visit sends your heart racing, you’re not alone. Most people avoid visits to a dentist, considering it to be raising their anxiety levels and creating a panic. This fear is known as <span>dental anxiety</span> and is more common than you might expect. Studies state that around 36 per cent of the population experience this fear, and around 12 per cent have extreme <span>dental phobia</span>. So we turned to an expert to know how sedation works and if it really helps anxious people overcome the fear. 

<strong>What Is <span rel="noindex">Sedation Dentistry</span>?</strong>

Don’t worry, it’s not a one-size-fits-all knockout. “In sedation dentistry, medication is used to relax the patients during any sort of invasive dental procedure,” explains Dr Kalsi. “It doesn’t mean that the patient will be unconscious; rather, the sedation levels may vary in intensity. They range from being minimum to deep and sometimes even general anaesthesia," says Dr Harleen Gandhi Kalsi. 

\In her words, “In minimal sedation, the individual is fully awake but feels calm. Deeply sedated patient is on the edge of unconsciousness.”

<strong>There are several ways sedation can be delivered:</strong>

<ul><li>Nitrous oxide (aka laughing gas): “Mild sedation inhaled through a mask, keeping you calm but fully responsive.”</li><li><span rel="noindex">Oral sedation</span>: “A pill (like diazepam) taken an hour before the appointment, causing drowsiness and reducing anxiety.”</li><li><span rel="noindex">IV sedation</span>: “A sedative drug is administered through a vein, allowing deeper and more controlled relaxation.”</li></ul>

<strong>No More Gritting Your Teeth Through the Pain</strong>

Wondering what the upside is? “The biggest benefit is psychological — sedation helps calm your mind and body, reducing the fear associated with <span>dental procedures</span>,” says Dr Kalsi.

But there’s more. “Sedation works alongside local anaesthesia to ensure you feel no pain during treatment, which reassures nervous patients.” You might even come out feeling like time flew. “Though the procedure may have taken hours, individuals feel it lasted for just a few minutes,” she points out.

If your body has a mind of its own in the chair, sedation can help with that too. “For patients who struggle with a strong <span>gag reflex</span> or the inability to sit still, sedation dentistry assists in making it a comfortable experience for the dentist as well as the patient,” Dr Kalsi says.

You might also not need to make as many dreaded trips. “Complex procedures can often be completed in one long sitting instead of multiple short visits, reducing the frequency of dental trips,” she adds.

A totally fair question. Dr Kalsi reassures, “If sedation is infused by a trained professional, sedation dentistry is safe.” She explains, “After reviewing your medical history, current drug usage and monitoring vitals, your dentist takes the final decision.”

Health Conditions A-Z

health

sedation dentistry

dental anxiety

nitrous  oxide

oral sedation

iv sedation

pain free treatment

dental phobia

gag reflex

anxiety relief

dental procedures

World Brain Day 2025: Could Your Brain Heal Itself? Why Scientists Are Betting On Neuroplasticity To Treat Neurological Disorders

10 Minute Warm-Up Yoga Poses That You Should Do Every Morning

Amid Intensified Midsummer Heatwave In US, Here’s How To Keep Heat Exhaustion And Stroke At Bay

Health & Wellness

Easy Breakfast Options To Try During Calorie Deficit

How To Stop Muscle Cramps Immediately

Why You Should Go For An Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Foods To Lower Cortisol Levels In Your Body

High-Fiber Dips You Can Make At Home For The Week

Weekend Warrior Exercises To Makeup For Stressful Week

Experiencing Headaches At Word? Natural Remedies To Try

Yoga Poses That Enhance Digestion

Health Benefits of Walking Backwards

No Eggs? Egg-Alternatives You Can Add To Your Diet

Savory And Smart Ways To Add Broccoli To Your Diet

Calorie Burning Habits That Can Help You Shed Extra Pounds

Yoga Poses That Can Help With Bloating

Fiber-Rich Oatmeal Dishes You Can Have For Breakfast

Signs You Must Visit A Doctor For Your Back Pain

Avocado Meal Prep Ideas To Increase Healthy Fat In Your Diet

Arm Exercises You Can Do At Home

Quick-Office Lunches That Can Keep You Full-Longer

How Increased Screen Time Affects Children's Health

Homemade Recipe To Make Protein-Rich Pancakes With Healthy Alternatives

Push-Up Variations You Can Do At Home

Common Mistakes Running Mistakes People Make

Low-Calorie Foods That Keep You Full For Long

Yoga Poses That Help You Get Rid Of Back Pain

Natural Ways To Increase Protein In Your Diet

Managing Excessive Daytime Sleepiness – Tips To Try

How Much Protein Is Too Much?

High Fiber Indian Foods You Should Try

10 Easy Ways To Boost Daily Fiber Intake

Adding Walnut Oil To Your Diet? Benefits You Should Know

Drinks That Soothe Headaches And Migraines

Waist Exercises For More Toned Belly

This Is How Stress Affects Your Heart

Does Digital ‘Brain Rot’ Really Affect Your Health?

Dishes With Fermented Foods To Eat For Your Gut Health

Yoga Poses That Stimulate Good Bowel Health

Weekend Warrior Exercises For Full Body Movement

Weekend Meal Prep Ideas That Will Last You A Weekend

Easy Homemade Healthy Dishes For Long Afternoons

Silent Walking: Mental Health Booster That Keeps You Fit

If the thought of a dental visit sends your heart racing, you’re not alone. Most people avoid visits to a dentist, considering it to be raising their anxiety levels and creating a panic. This fear is known as dental anxiety and is more common than you might expect. Studies state that around 36 per cent of the population experience this fear, and around 12 per cent have extreme dental phobia. So we turned to an expert to know how sedation works and if it really helps anxious people overcome the fear. What Is Sedation Dentistry?Don’t worry, it’s not a one-size-fits-all knockout. “In sedation dentistry, medication is used to relax the patients during any sort of invasive dental procedure,” explains Dr Kalsi. “It doesn’t mean that the patient will be unconscious; rather, the sedation levels may vary in intensity. They range from being minimum to deep and sometimes even general anaesthesia," says Dr Harleen Gandhi Kalsi. \In her words, “In minimal sedation, the individual is fully awake but feels calm. Deeply sedated patient is on the edge of unconsciousness.”There are several ways sedation can be delivered:Nitrous oxide (aka laughing gas): “Mild sedation inhaled through a mask, keeping you calm but fully responsive.”Oral sedation: “A pill (like diazepam) taken an hour before the appointment, causing drowsiness and reducing anxiety.”IV sedation: “A sedative drug is administered through a vein, allowing deeper and more controlled relaxation.”No More Gritting Your Teeth Through the PainWondering what the upside is? “The biggest benefit is psychological — sedation helps calm your mind and body, reducing the fear associated with dental procedures,” says Dr Kalsi.But there’s more. “Sedation works alongside local anaesthesia to ensure you feel no pain during treatment, which reassures nervous patients.” You might even come out feeling like time flew. “Though the procedure may have taken hours, individuals feel it lasted for just a few minutes,” she points out.If your body has a mind of its own in the chair, sedation can help with that too. “For patients who struggle with a strong gag reflex or the inability to sit still, sedation dentistry assists in making it a comfortable experience for the dentist as well as the patient,” Dr Kalsi says.You might also not need to make as many dreaded trips. “Complex procedures can often be completed in one long sitting instead of multiple short visits, reducing the frequency of dental trips,” she adds.Is It Safe?A totally fair question. Dr Kalsi reassures, “If sedation is infused by a trained professional, sedation dentistry is safe.” She explains, “After reviewing your medical history, current drug usage and monitoring vitals, your dentist takes the final decision.”

how sedation helps people feel less nervous at the dentist

Tanya Dutt

Does Your Mind Go Blank Mid-Conversation? Science Reveals The Truth ‘Blanking Out’

does your mind go blank mid-conversation? science reveals the truth ‘blanking out’

Faith vs. Medicine: The Sleeping Prince’s 20-Year Battle Between Life, Death, and Coma Care

faith vs. medicine: the sleeping prince’s 20-year battle between life, death, and coma care

UK Scientists Scan Over 100,000 People, What The Human Imaging Study Could Reveal About Your Health?

uk scientists scan over 100,000 people, what the human imaging study could reveal about your health?

Nutrition

Why You Crave Comfort Food When You’re Stressed? Simple Tips To Stop Stress Eating

why you crave comfort food when you’re stressed? simple tips to stop stress eating

There's a remarkable change taking place within your brain every single day and chances are, you don't even realize it. Every time you overcome a bad habit, acquire a new skill, or have a new idea, your brain remaps itself. This isn't poetic, it's science and it is called <span>neuroplasticity</span>.

For decades, scientists thought the adult brain was static, hardwired after childhood but over the last few decades, that's been completely rewritten by futuristic science. Today we know that the brain is dynamic, a changing entity that continues to adapt throughout life. Whether you're healing from trauma, creating new habits, or attempting to hone focus, your brain has the capacity to change—structurally and functionally.

What makes it even more intriguing is the way all this occurs unseen, as if a sculptor is working quietly, remolding clay with every experience, feeling, and deed. Neurons are reconfigured, synapses grow or dissolve. Large areas of the brain expand or contract based upon usage.

You're not tied to the brain you were born with. Neuroplasticity is possibility, and opening it up doesn't involve miracle tablets—it takes regular, conscious effort. From mindfulness exercises to movement and mindset changes, tiny habits can result in huge rewiring. Let's see how it works—and what it might do for your mental health.

Neuroplasticity is the brain's capacity to reorganize its structure and function as a result of learning, experience, or injury. It's a process by which new connections are created among neurons or the existing ones are stabilized, enabling the brain to change. Says Dr. Prajwal Rao, Professor and Head of Neurology at Pune's Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, "Neuroplasticity is the brain's built-in mechanism for recovery.". It's how the nervous system adapts, compensates, and—even when injured—develops new ways of working." 

This concept has transformed the treatment of injury to the central nervous system (CNS), consisting of the brain and spinal cord. Following a traumatic brain injury (TBI) or spinal cord injury (SCI), rehabilitation efforts now center upon retraining the brain through neuroplastic principles.

<h2>What is The Common Thread Between Birth Injury to Neurodegeneration?</h2>

On the surface, cerebral palsy and Parkinson's disease seem worlds apart. One is a motor disorder due to brain damage in utero or in the first moments after birth; the other is an otherwise healthy neurological disease that typically happens later in life. But both have damaged brain circuits—and that's where neuroplasticity comes in.

As Dr Rao explains, "Cerebral palsy, usually resulting from brain damage at birth, and Parkinson's disease, an incurable condition that degrades brain cells responsible for movement, are worlds apart. But both have something in common: both are the result of damage to brain circuits. And that's where neuroplasticity becomes relevant.".

The brain's neural network is able to create new paths or reinforce old ones, particularly when they are stimulated by activity, learning, or therapy. In cerebral palsy individuals, this rewiring is able to improve coordination and movement. In Parkinson's patients, the brain can be persuaded to tap into alternative pathways to make up for motor deficits by doing targeted exercises or activities."

In children with cerebral palsy, it is possible to train the brain to redirect impaired motor functions to healthier areas. With age, neuroplasticity makes it possible to enhance movement despite the damage being static. In Parkinson's disease patients, therapies involving targeted movement, rhythm, and coordination exercises can restore or even recover motor functions by facilitating alternate neural pathways to assume lost functions.

When you learn something new—how to ride a bike, how to play the piano, or even how to type—your brain is making certain links between neurons stronger. That's neuroplasticity in action. But here's the kicker- this very principle will work even after neural damage, provided the brain is stimulated with regular and targeted activity.

Consider for instance the mechanism of task-specific repetition. In order for neuroplastic changes to occur, the task needs to be:

Repetitive: The more it's practiced, the more efficient and instinctive it becomes.

Whether it's a child learning to walk again or an adult trying to regain hand coordination after a stroke, neuroplasticity makes progress possible—not perfect, but often meaningful. "Modern rehabilitation approaches are now designed to tap into this power. Tools like robot-assisted therapy, virtual reality, and non-invasive brain stimulation are showing promise in helping patients recover brain functions. It’s like giving the brain a second chance to learn what it lost. The key, is timing and repetition, the earlier and more consistently someone engages their brain through goal-directed activity, the better the chances of building new neural pathways. Think of it as physical therapy for your brain," adds Dr Rao.

<h2>What Are Some New Technologies Leveraging Brain Plasticity?</h2>

Rehabilitation in today's world is more than walking along parallel bars or doing puzzles. Advanced therapy is capitalizing on the plasticity of the brain. Some of these include:

Virtual Reality (VR): Engaging surroundings assist patients in moving and balancing in interactive, real-time situations.

Robot-Assisted Therapy: Machines assist limbs by guiding them through movement to facilitate neuromuscular retraining.

Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation: Methods such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) increase plasticity by altering neural activity.

These are not sci-fi tools—these are already being used in clinics, aiding individuals in regaining control over their body and life following neurological injury.

<h2>How Neuroplasticity Can Help Treat <span rel="noindex">Neurological Disorders</span>?</h2>

One of the most robust outcomes in neuroplasticity research is that sooner is better. The earlier therapy begins—particularly after trauma—the more plastic the brain will be. Speed is only part of it, however. Consistency and intensity are also crucial. Working on highly structured, goal-driven activities daily reinforces new neural pathways and promotes sustained change.

It's physical therapy for your brain: challenge, repeat, get used to it, repeat once again.

It's crucial to understand: neuroplasticity is no panacea. It does not reverse damage to the brain or stop diseases in their tracks. Parkinson's disease continues to progress, and cerebral palsy is still a life-long affliction. But accessing the brain's capacity to reorganize provides a means to improvement, not merely management.

Neuroplasticity cannot reverse all symptoms but can enhance function, independence, and most importantly quality of life.

We’re still scratching the surface of what neuroplasticity can do. But what’s clear is this: the brain is not a static organ. It’s dynamic, responsive, and, with the right tools and persistence, capable of remarkable change. From the neonatal ICU to nursing homes, this concept is reshaping neurological care.

As Dr. Rao concludes, “This doesn’t mean neuroplasticity is a magical cure. Conditions such as Parkinson's remain progressive, and cerebral palsy is accompanied by a lifetime of difficulties but tapping the brain's own malleability provides clinicians and patients with an extraordinary tool to enhance quality of life. Briefly, neuroplasticity is becoming one of medicine's most promising frontiers. Whether in a child with cerebral palsy learning to walk, or an older person with Parkinson's learning to balance again, the brain's capacity to rewire itself might be one of its most powerful assets.

world brain day

brain health

neurological disorders

neuroplasticity

brain heal itself

neurological treatment

parkinsons therapy

alzheimers research

brain rewiring

natural brain healing

There's a remarkable change taking place within your brain every single day and chances are, you don't even realize it. Every time you overcome a bad habit, acquire a new skill, or have a new idea, your brain remaps itself. This isn't poetic, it's science and it is called neuroplasticity.For decades, scientists thought the adult brain was static, hardwired after childhood but over the last few decades, that's been completely rewritten by futuristic science. Today we know that the brain is dynamic, a changing entity that continues to adapt throughout life. Whether you're healing from trauma, creating new habits, or attempting to hone focus, your brain has the capacity to change—structurally and functionally.What makes it even more intriguing is the way all this occurs unseen, as if a sculptor is working quietly, remolding clay with every experience, feeling, and deed. Neurons are reconfigured, synapses grow or dissolve. Large areas of the brain expand or contract based upon usage.You're not tied to the brain you were born with. Neuroplasticity is possibility, and opening it up doesn't involve miracle tablets—it takes regular, conscious effort. From mindfulness exercises to movement and mindset changes, tiny habits can result in huge rewiring. Let's see how it works—and what it might do for your mental health.What Is Neuroplasticity?Neuroplasticity is the brain's capacity to reorganize its structure and function as a result of learning, experience, or injury. It's a process by which new connections are created among neurons or the existing ones are stabilized, enabling the brain to change. Says Dr. Prajwal Rao, Professor and Head of Neurology at Pune's Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, "Neuroplasticity is the brain's built-in mechanism for recovery.". It's how the nervous system adapts, compensates, and—even when injured—develops new ways of working." This concept has transformed the treatment of injury to the central nervous system (CNS), consisting of the brain and spinal cord. Following a traumatic brain injury (TBI) or spinal cord injury (SCI), rehabilitation efforts now center upon retraining the brain through neuroplastic principles.What is The Common Thread Between Birth Injury to Neurodegeneration?On the surface, cerebral palsy and Parkinson's disease seem worlds apart. One is a motor disorder due to brain damage in utero or in the first moments after birth; the other is an otherwise healthy neurological disease that typically happens later in life. But both have damaged brain circuits—and that's where neuroplasticity comes in.As Dr Rao explains, "Cerebral palsy, usually resulting from brain damage at birth, and Parkinson's disease, an incurable condition that degrades brain cells responsible for movement, are worlds apart. But both have something in common: both are the result of damage to brain circuits. And that's where neuroplasticity becomes relevant.".The brain's neural network is able to create new paths or reinforce old ones, particularly when they are stimulated by activity, learning, or therapy. In cerebral palsy individuals, this rewiring is able to improve coordination and movement. In Parkinson's patients, the brain can be persuaded to tap into alternative pathways to make up for motor deficits by doing targeted exercises or activities."In children with cerebral palsy, it is possible to train the brain to redirect impaired motor functions to healthier areas. With age, neuroplasticity makes it possible to enhance movement despite the damage being static. In Parkinson's disease patients, therapies involving targeted movement, rhythm, and coordination exercises can restore or even recover motor functions by facilitating alternate neural pathways to assume lost functions.When you learn something new—how to ride a bike, how to play the piano, or even how to type—your brain is making certain links between neurons stronger. That's neuroplasticity in action. But here's the kicker- this very principle will work even after neural damage, provided the brain is stimulated with regular and targeted activity.Consider for instance the mechanism of task-specific repetition. In order for neuroplastic changes to occur, the task needs to be:Novel: It stimulates new circuits.Challenging: It keeps the brain engaged.Repetitive: The more it's practiced, the more efficient and instinctive it becomes.Whether it's a child learning to walk again or an adult trying to regain hand coordination after a stroke, neuroplasticity makes progress possible—not perfect, but often meaningful. "Modern rehabilitation approaches are now designed to tap into this power. Tools like robot-assisted therapy, virtual reality, and non-invasive brain stimulation are showing promise in helping patients recover brain functions. It’s like giving the brain a second chance to learn what it lost. The key, is timing and repetition, the earlier and more consistently someone engages their brain through goal-directed activity, the better the chances of building new neural pathways. Think of it as physical therapy for your brain," adds Dr Rao.What Are Some New Technologies Leveraging Brain Plasticity?Rehabilitation in today's world is more than walking along parallel bars or doing puzzles. Advanced therapy is capitalizing on the plasticity of the brain. Some of these include:Virtual Reality (VR): Engaging surroundings assist patients in moving and balancing in interactive, real-time situations.Robot-Assisted Therapy: Machines assist limbs by guiding them through movement to facilitate neuromuscular retraining.Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation: Methods such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) increase plasticity by altering neural activity.These are not sci-fi tools—these are already being used in clinics, aiding individuals in regaining control over their body and life following neurological injury.How Neuroplasticity Can Help Treat Neurological Disorders?One of the most robust outcomes in neuroplasticity research is that sooner is better. The earlier therapy begins—particularly after trauma—the more plastic the brain will be. Speed is only part of it, however. Consistency and intensity are also crucial. Working on highly structured, goal-driven activities daily reinforces new neural pathways and promotes sustained change.It's physical therapy for your brain: challenge, repeat, get used to it, repeat once again.It's crucial to understand: neuroplasticity is no panacea. It does not reverse damage to the brain or stop diseases in their tracks. Parkinson's disease continues to progress, and cerebral palsy is still a life-long affliction. But accessing the brain's capacity to reorganize provides a means to improvement, not merely management.Neuroplasticity cannot reverse all symptoms but can enhance function, independence, and most importantly quality of life.We’re still scratching the surface of what neuroplasticity can do. But what’s clear is this: the brain is not a static organ. It’s dynamic, responsive, and, with the right tools and persistence, capable of remarkable change. From the neonatal ICU to nursing homes, this concept is reshaping neurological care.As Dr. Rao concludes, “This doesn’t mean neuroplasticity is a magical cure. Conditions such as Parkinson's remain progressive, and cerebral palsy is accompanied by a lifetime of difficulties but tapping the brain's own malleability provides clinicians and patients with an extraordinary tool to enhance quality of life. Briefly, neuroplasticity is becoming one of medicine's most promising frontiers. Whether in a child with cerebral palsy learning to walk, or an older person with Parkinson's learning to balance again, the brain's capacity to rewire itself might be one of its most powerful assets.

world brain day 2025: could your brain heal itself? why scientists are betting on neuroplasticity to treat neurological disorders

The Quiet Anxiety in High Achievers and Why Success Does Not Silence FOMO

Don't Let The Smiling 'Fit' Selfies On Social Media Fool You, Here's What Eating Disorders Can Look Like

eating disorders

The Overlooked Role of Men in IVF: Why Their Silent Strength Is Key to Fertility Success

the overlooked role of men in ivf: why their silent strength is key to fertility success

Rage Recedes After 50 In Women But Suppressed Anger Could Be Harming Your Health, Here's How

rage recedes after 50 in women but suppressed anger could be harming your health, here's how

<span>High performers</span> are typically seen as the gold standard of confidence, clarity, and control. They are the ones with packed schedules, flooded inboxes, and achievements that look impressive on paper. Yet, behind this polished exterior lies a quiet undercurrent of anxiety, a sense that despite all their success, they’re somehow falling behind.

This isn’t your usual fear of missing out on parties or holidays. Pritika Singh, a <span>mental health</span> expert, explains that this is a more internalised form of FOMO, driven by self-comparison. It’s not about others having more fun; it’s about thinking, “Maybe I should’ve done things differently, moved faster, started earlier.” These thoughts tend to creep in during long commutes, late nights, or while scrolling through yet another announcement of someone else’s achievement.

In the world of high performance, such feelings rarely find a voice. Singh observes that the conversations in these circles stay surface-level—productivity, KPIs, market trends. But beneath it all is an emotional toll: the weight of constant <span>ambition</span>, the pressure to do better, and the fear that someone else is inching ahead. And it’s not about craving praise either. Most of these professionals stopped chasing external validation long ago. What rattles them is the subtle sense of sta when growth feels slow and someone else’s story feels shinier.

Why is this happening? Singh points to the nature of the environment these individuals work in. When excellence is expected, achievements that once thrilled now feel ordinary. An idea that was groundbreaking five years ago may now seem outdated. Constant exposure to others’ polished highlight reels can skew one’s perspective, leaving even top-tier professionals feeling behind.

The high-functioning brain is always buzzing with “What more could I have done?” Left unchecked, this becomes more draining than motivating. Ms Singh notes how this mental churn can blur decision-making. Success doesn’t feel like success. Taking a break feels like laziness. And even milestones are accompanied by a haunting urgency to get to the next one.

There’s also the cultural expectation that leaders must always be strong, focused, and future-oriented. As Singh puts it, the higher someone climbs, the fewer spaces they find to express vulnerability. And as everyone else’s life appears increasingly curated and perfect, the loneliness grows. The internal struggle becomes more isolated, more silent.

According to Singh, what helps is clarity, not the kind that fills spreadsheets or timelines, but the one that comes from knowing your personal direction. Without this, even ambitious pursuits can feel empty. It’s important to filter what truly deserves your attention. Every achievement that pops up on your feed is not your missed opportunity. “Momentum, when borrowed, rarely lasts,” she warns. That buzz of external inspiration often leads people away from what really matters.

Instead of reacting constantly, Singh recommends carving out time for honest reflection. Ironically, some of the best leadership decisions happen in the quiet seasons. It’s not always about doing more, she says. Sometimes, it’s about doing what’s right with intention.

This silent form of FOMO is widespread but rarely acknowledged. High performers are often expected to have it all figured out. But Singh warns that when the pressure builds from within slowly, subtly, and without expression, it chips away at the very edge that made them excel in the first place.

It’s not about whether someone else is racing ahead. Singh closes with a powerful reminder: “The better question is whether the current direction still feels right.” Because when it does, the outside noise starts to fade.

high performers

silent fomo

ambition

mental health

burnout

internal comparison

leadership pressure

success anxiety

productivity culture

emotional exhaustion

High performers are typically seen as the gold standard of confidence, clarity, and control. They are the ones with packed schedules, flooded inboxes, and achievements that look impressive on paper. Yet, behind this polished exterior lies a quiet undercurrent of anxiety, a sense that despite all their success, they’re somehow falling behind.FOMO, But Not the One You ThinkThis isn’t your usual fear of missing out on parties or holidays. Pritika Singh, a mental health expert, explains that this is a more internalised form of FOMO, driven by self-comparison. It’s not about others having more fun; it’s about thinking, “Maybe I should’ve done things differently, moved faster, started earlier.” These thoughts tend to creep in during long commutes, late nights, or while scrolling through yet another announcement of someone else’s achievement.What No One Talks AboutIn the world of high performance, such feelings rarely find a voice. Singh observes that the conversations in these circles stay surface-level—productivity, KPIs, market trends. But beneath it all is an emotional toll: the weight of constant ambition, the pressure to do better, and the fear that someone else is inching ahead. And it’s not about craving praise either. Most of these professionals stopped chasing external validation long ago. What rattles them is the subtle sense of sta when growth feels slow and someone else’s story feels shinier.The Environment of Ever-Rising BarsWhy is this happening? Singh points to the nature of the environment these individuals work in. When excellence is expected, achievements that once thrilled now feel ordinary. An idea that was groundbreaking five years ago may now seem outdated. Constant exposure to others’ polished highlight reels can skew one’s perspective, leaving even top-tier professionals feeling behind.The Mental Churn of ‘What More?’The high-functioning brain is always buzzing with “What more could I have done?” Left unchecked, this becomes more draining than motivating. Ms Singh notes how this mental churn can blur decision-making. Success doesn’t feel like success. Taking a break feels like laziness. And even milestones are accompanied by a haunting urgency to get to the next one.Why It Feels So Lonely at the TopThere’s also the cultural expectation that leaders must always be strong, focused, and future-oriented. As Singh puts it, the higher someone climbs, the fewer spaces they find to express vulnerability. And as everyone else’s life appears increasingly curated and perfect, the loneliness grows. The internal struggle becomes more isolated, more silent.What Actually HelpsAccording to Singh, what helps is clarity, not the kind that fills spreadsheets or timelines, but the one that comes from knowing your personal direction. Without this, even ambitious pursuits can feel empty. It’s important to filter what truly deserves your attention. Every achievement that pops up on your feed is not your missed opportunity. “Momentum, when borrowed, rarely lasts,” she warns. That buzz of external inspiration often leads people away from what really matters.Make Space for QuietInstead of reacting constantly, Singh recommends carving out time for honest reflection. Ironically, some of the best leadership decisions happen in the quiet seasons. It’s not always about doing more, she says. Sometimes, it’s about doing what’s right with intention.When the Inner Edge Begins to FrayThis silent form of FOMO is widespread but rarely acknowledged. High performers are often expected to have it all figured out. But Singh warns that when the pressure builds from within slowly, subtly, and without expression, it chips away at the very edge that made them excel in the first place.Ask the Right QuestionIt’s not about whether someone else is racing ahead. Singh closes with a powerful reminder: “The better question is whether the current direction still feels right.” Because when it does, the outside noise starts to fade.

the quiet anxiety in high achievers and why success does not silence fomo

Does Your Mind Go Blank Mid-Conversation? Here's The Truth About 'Blanking Out'

It’s happened to most of us—one second you’re knee-deep in work, driving down a familiar road, or folding laundry, and the next, your brain seems to hit pause. You’re left with no memory of the past few seconds or even minutes. What were you thinking about? Nothing. Literally nothing. It’s not distraction, and it’s not daydreaming. It’s something else.

Scientists call this phenomenon <span>mind blanking</span>, and according to a new study published in Trends in Cognitive Sciences, it's not just a casual glitch. It's a real and distinct state of consciousness—one that may help us better understand how the human brain works, and what happens when it suddenly goes quiet.

A team of researchers from Belgium, France, and Australia reviewed over 80 existing studies and added their own data, exploring brain activity during these “blank” states. What they found challenges the idea that we’re always actively thinking or feeling—even when we’re awake.

“Mind blanking is not the same as mind wandering,” said lead researcher Thomas Andrillon. “In blanking, there’s an actual absence of reportable mental content. The lights are on, but no one’s home—so to speak.”

People in the study reported feeling as if their mind had emptied, like a thought vacuum. They weren’t imagining something, daydreaming, or distracted. They were simply… blank. And for the first time, science is catching up to what that really means.

<h2>How Often Does Mind Blanking Happen?</h2>

The researchers estimate that mind blanking can account for 5 to 20 percent of our waking life. That’s not a small number. And like most mental phenomena, it’s highly individual.

People with ADHD report more frequent blanking episodes, as do those with certain neurological or psychiatric conditions, including traumatic brain injuries, anxiety, and rare disorders like Kleine-Levin syndrome. Others experience it occasionally—typically after sustained mental effort, sleep deprivation, or intense physical activity.

In other words, when the brain is either overstimulated or exhausted, it sometimes takes a momentary break, whether we ask it to or not.

This isn’t just about self-reports or journal entries. Researchers used tools like EEG (electroencephalography) and fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging) to analyze what happens in the brain during these episodes.

EEG data revealed a fascinating clue, during mind blanking, parts of the brain show activity similar to what we see during local sleep—a phenomenon where only certain regions of the brain enter a sleep-like state, even while a person remains awake. The signs? Slower brain waves, reduced signal complexity, decreased heart rate, and even smaller pupil size. All of these are biological signatures of the brain checking out, even temporarily.

Meanwhile, in fMRI scans, people who were instructed to "think of nothing" showed reduced activity in major areas of the brain, including Broca’s area (linked to speech and thought), the hippocampus (linked to memory), and the supplementary motor area. It suggests that the “blank” state may involve a coordinated, large-scale dampening of neural activity.

But researchers caution: deliberately trying to think of nothing isn’t quite the same as the spontaneous blanking that happens mid-task or mid-thought. That’s one of the nuances they hope future research will untangle.

<h2>Mind Blanking vs. Mind Wandering: How to Spot the Difference?</h2>

The study makes a point to distinguish between mind blanking and mind wandering. The latter is when your thoughts drift to unrelated things—a dinner plan, a past memory, a mental to-do list. The former, however, is a mental void.

Mind wandering is filled with uninvited content. Mind blanking is an empty room. “This is a distinct state of consciousness,” said co-author Jennifer Windt. “It’s as direct and intimate an experience as bearing thoughts—except here, there are none.”

Understanding that difference is critical, especially when it comes to diagnosing neurological conditions, evaluating attention disorders, or designing cognitive therapies.

<h2>Why Some People Blank-Out More Than Others?</h2>

Why do some people’s minds go blank more often than others? Genetics, brain structure, stress levels, and even personality may play a role, though this area of research is still in its infancy.

What we do know is that blanking tends to occur at the edges of arousal—when your brain is either highly activated (like during a test) or barely engaged (like while commuting). Both extremes can temporarily disconnect your conscious awareness from active processing, creating a fleeting but real “blank” space in the mind.

<h2>Could This Be Dangerous or Useful?</h2>

Mind blanking can be disorienting, especially if it happens while driving, cooking, or performing tasks that require awareness. However, most instances are harmless.

What’s less understood is whether frequent blanking is a sign of something deeper—like cognitive overload or neurological decline. Some researchers are exploring whether excessive blanking could one day serve as an early marker for conditions like dementia or chronic fatigue.

Others see potential in studying blanking for mental health interventions. Could we harness that “empty” state therapeutically? Could guided mind blanking calm an overactive brain the way meditation does? These are the questions that researchers like Demertzi and Andrillon want to explore next.

Mind blanking is still a gray zone in cognitive neuroscience. There’s no consensus on how it works, how to measure it reliably, or whether it's a single state or several different experiences bundled together.

But what this new study does offer is validation: if your mind goes blank sometimes, you're not broken. Your brain might just be doing its thing—resting, resetting, or recalibrating.

“We believe this line of inquiry is both timely and necessary,” said Andrillon. “There’s still so much we don’t know about consciousness. But by looking at what happens when thoughts vanish, we might get closer to understanding what it means to have them at all.”

That fleeting blank moment isn’t just mental static—it’s part of the complex dance of consciousness. While it might feel like your brain has briefly stopped working, research is beginning to show that these pauses are neither random nor empty. They could, in fact, be telling us more about the brain’s inner rhythms than we ever imagined.

mind blanking

brain scan study

neuroscience attention

brain activity lapse

cognitive shutdown

mental fog causes

brain research findings

World Brain day

It’s happened to most of us—one second you’re knee-deep in work, driving down a familiar road, or folding laundry, and the next, your brain seems to hit pause. You’re left with no memory of the past few seconds or even minutes. What were you thinking about? Nothing. Literally nothing. It’s not distraction, and it’s not daydreaming. It’s something else.Scientists call this phenomenon mind blanking, and according to a new study published in Trends in Cognitive Sciences, it's not just a casual glitch. It's a real and distinct state of consciousness—one that may help us better understand how the human brain works, and what happens when it suddenly goes quiet.A team of researchers from Belgium, France, and Australia reviewed over 80 existing studies and added their own data, exploring brain activity during these “blank” states. What they found challenges the idea that we’re always actively thinking or feeling—even when we’re awake.“Mind blanking is not the same as mind wandering,” said lead researcher Thomas Andrillon. “In blanking, there’s an actual absence of reportable mental content. The lights are on, but no one’s home—so to speak.”People in the study reported feeling as if their mind had emptied, like a thought vacuum. They weren’t imagining something, daydreaming, or distracted. They were simply… blank. And for the first time, science is catching up to what that really means.How Often Does Mind Blanking Happen?The researchers estimate that mind blanking can account for 5 to 20 percent of our waking life. That’s not a small number. And like most mental phenomena, it’s highly individual.People with ADHD report more frequent blanking episodes, as do those with certain neurological or psychiatric conditions, including traumatic brain injuries, anxiety, and rare disorders like Kleine-Levin syndrome. Others experience it occasionally—typically after sustained mental effort, sleep deprivation, or intense physical activity.In other words, when the brain is either overstimulated or exhausted, it sometimes takes a momentary break, whether we ask it to or not.This isn’t just about self-reports or journal entries. Researchers used tools like EEG (electroencephalography) and fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging) to analyze what happens in the brain during these episodes.EEG data revealed a fascinating clue, during mind blanking, parts of the brain show activity similar to what we see during local sleep—a phenomenon where only certain regions of the brain enter a sleep-like state, even while a person remains awake. The signs? Slower brain waves, reduced signal complexity, decreased heart rate, and even smaller pupil size. All of these are biological signatures of the brain checking out, even temporarily.Meanwhile, in fMRI scans, people who were instructed to "think of nothing" showed reduced activity in major areas of the brain, including Broca’s area (linked to speech and thought), the hippocampus (linked to memory), and the supplementary motor area. It suggests that the “blank” state may involve a coordinated, large-scale dampening of neural activity.But researchers caution: deliberately trying to think of nothing isn’t quite the same as the spontaneous blanking that happens mid-task or mid-thought. That’s one of the nuances they hope future research will untangle.Mind Blanking vs. Mind Wandering: How to Spot the Difference?The study makes a point to distinguish between mind blanking and mind wandering. The latter is when your thoughts drift to unrelated things—a dinner plan, a past memory, a mental to-do list. The former, however, is a mental void.Mind wandering is filled with uninvited content. Mind blanking is an empty room. “This is a distinct state of consciousness,” said co-author Jennifer Windt. “It’s as direct and intimate an experience as bearing thoughts—except here, there are none.”Understanding that difference is critical, especially when it comes to diagnosing neurological conditions, evaluating attention disorders, or designing cognitive therapies.Why Some People Blank-Out More Than Others?Why do some people’s minds go blank more often than others? Genetics, brain structure, stress levels, and even personality may play a role, though this area of research is still in its infancy.What we do know is that blanking tends to occur at the edges of arousal—when your brain is either highly activated (like during a test) or barely engaged (like while commuting). Both extremes can temporarily disconnect your conscious awareness from active processing, creating a fleeting but real “blank” space in the mind.Could This Be Dangerous or Useful?Mind blanking can be disorienting, especially if it happens while driving, cooking, or performing tasks that require awareness. However, most instances are harmless.What’s less understood is whether frequent blanking is a sign of something deeper—like cognitive overload or neurological decline. Some researchers are exploring whether excessive blanking could one day serve as an early marker for conditions like dementia or chronic fatigue.Others see potential in studying blanking for mental health interventions. Could we harness that “empty” state therapeutically? Could guided mind blanking calm an overactive brain the way meditation does? These are the questions that researchers like Demertzi and Andrillon want to explore next.Mind blanking is still a gray zone in cognitive neuroscience. There’s no consensus on how it works, how to measure it reliably, or whether it's a single state or several different experiences bundled together.But what this new study does offer is validation: if your mind goes blank sometimes, you're not broken. Your brain might just be doing its thing—resting, resetting, or recalibrating.“We believe this line of inquiry is both timely and necessary,” said Andrillon. “There’s still so much we don’t know about consciousness. But by looking at what happens when thoughts vanish, we might get closer to understanding what it means to have them at all.”That fleeting blank moment isn’t just mental static—it’s part of the complex dance of consciousness. While it might feel like your brain has briefly stopped working, research is beginning to show that these pauses are neither random nor empty. They could, in fact, be telling us more about the brain’s inner rhythms than we ever imagined.

About Us

Contact Us

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Company

Health and Me is a premium website with content written and curated to function as a handbook for all Health concerns.