“Anxiety itself is not in the least a sickness, but the state of ‘fearing anxiety’ is pathological.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「不安自体はすこしも病気ではないが、「不安をおそれる」という状態は病的である。」
English
“Anxiety itself is not in the least a sickness, but the state of ‘fearing anxiety’ is pathological.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima distinguishes between anxiety as an emotion and the fear of anxiety itself. He suggests that anxiety, in its natural form, is not a disease but rather an inevitable part of human experience. Anxiety arises as a response to uncertainty or stress, and in that sense, it is a normal reaction to the complexities of life. However, Mishima highlights that the real problem arises when a person becomes afraid of their own anxiety—when they fear the discomfort or uncertainty that anxiety brings. This fear of anxiety leads to a pathological state, where the individual is unable to cope with the natural fluctuations of their emotional life, potentially causing more harm than the anxiety itself.
Mishima’s distinction reflects a profound psychological insight: while anxiety is part of the human condition, the real suffering comes from the avoidance or repression of it. By fearing anxiety, a person becomes trapped in a cycle of dread and paralysis, unable to move forward or address the source of their discomfort. The fear of anxiety creates an unnatural state in which a person is not simply reacting to external pressures but is instead entangled in a mental battle with their own emotions. Mishima seems to suggest that acceptance and acknowledgment of anxiety as a normal part of life are crucial in preventing it from becoming a chronic or pathological condition.
In a modern context, Mishima’s observation resonates with how many people today struggle with mental health issues related to anxiety, often exacerbated by the pressure to perform or achieve in an increasingly demanding world. The fear of anxiety—the desire to avoid or escape uncomfortable feelings—can lead to worsening mental health and can prevent individuals from seeking the help or coping mechanisms they need. Mishima’s quote reminds us that anxiety itself is not inherently harmful, but avoiding or fearing it can cause deeper emotional distress, and that learning to embrace and manage anxiety is a healthier path to mental resilience and emotional well-being.
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