Questions: Which area of the brain is “quieted” by anti-anxiety medications? Hippocampus Nucleus accumbens Amygdala Hypothalamus

The answer is the third one (C): Amygdala.

Explanation for each option:

• Hippocampus: This area of the brain is primarily associated with memory formation and spatial navigation. While it can be affected by stress and anxiety, it is not the primary target of anti-anxiety medications.

• Nucleus accumbens: This region is involved in the brain's reward circuitry and is more associated with pleasure and reinforcement learning rather than anxiety.

• Amygdala: This is the correct answer. The amygdala is a key brain region involved in the processing of emotions, including fear and anxiety. Anti-anxiety medications often work by reducing the activity in the amygdala, thereby helping to alleviate symptoms of anxiety.

• Hypothalamus: This area is involved in various autonomic functions and the regulation of hormones, including those related to stress. While it plays a role in the body's response to stress, it is not the primary focus of anti-anxiety medications.

In summary, anti-anxiety medications primarily target the amygdala to help reduce anxiety symptoms.