Watch A Cure for Fear

A Cure for Fear is a documentary series that follows the groundbreaking work of Dr. Merel Kindt, a Professor of Clinical Psychology at the University of Amsterdam who is changing the way we treat anxiety disorders. The show begins by introducing Dr. Kindt and her team, who are working to develop a new treatment for anxiety disorders that is both fast-acting and long-lasting. Currently, the most common treatments for anxiety disorders like phobias and PTSD are cognitive behavioral therapy and exposure therapy, which can take weeks or even months to see results.

However, Dr. Kindt's research has shown that a single dose of a drug called propranolol can potentially cure a specific phobia or fear. Propranolol is a beta-blocker that is typically used to treat high blood pressure and heart conditions, but Dr. Kindt has discovered that it can also weaken the emotional memory that underlies fear. By administering the drug before exposure to the fear-inducing object or situation, patients are able to unlearn their fear response much more quickly and effectively than with traditional therapy.

The show follows a number of patients as they undergo Dr. Kindt's treatment, including a woman with a crippling fear of spiders and a man with a fear of heights. We see them take the propranolol and then go through exposure therapy, gradually facing their fears and coming out the other side with newfound confidence and freedom.

In addition to following individual patients, the show also delves into the science behind Dr. Kindt's research. We learn about the role of the amygdala in fear response and how propranolol impacts the plasticity of emotional memory. We also see how Dr. Kindt and her team conduct experiments to test the effectiveness of the treatment and refine their methods.

Throughout the series, we also hear from other experts in the field of psychology who weigh in on Dr. Kindt's research and its potential implications for the future of anxiety treatment. Some express optimism about the possibilities of a fast-acting, drug-based treatment, while others urge caution and further research before widespread adoption.

One of the most interesting aspects of A Cure for Fear is the ethical considerations that arise from Dr. Kindt's research. Is it ethical to use drugs to "erase" memories or emotions? Could such a treatment be used to treat conditions beyond anxiety, such as addiction or PTSD? The show raises important questions and prompts viewers to think critically about the potential benefits and drawbacks of this new approach.

Overall, A Cure for Fear is a fascinating exploration of a cutting-edge treatment for anxiety disorders. By featuring both the patients who benefit from the treatment and the scientists who are working to advance the field, the show provides a comprehensive look at this exciting new direction in mental healthcare.