Nervousness is a feeling of fear, worry, or apprehension.
Feeling nervous on occasion is normal and even beneficial.
When the situation is over, the nervousness usually goes away.
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How Is Nervousness Different From Anxiety?
The terms “nervous” and “anxious” are often used interchangeably, but they mean different things.
Anxietyis the anticipation of some future threat.
It often prevents people from doing things they need or want to do.
Causes of Nervousness
Nervousness is a natural reaction to our perception that something could be dangerous.
It is part of thefight-or-flight responsethat is necessary for survival.
Nervousness is your body’s way of telling you to be alert.
Some situations that may trigger nervousness include:
Can Nervousness Be a Symptom of Anything Else?
How to Treat Nervousness
While situational nervousness is normal, it can be unpleasant and distracting.
Studies have shown that animals can have a calming effect on people.
Therapy dogs are sometimes brought into hospitals or long-term care facilities.
If the nervousness is part of an anxiety disorder, treating the anxiety disorder itself can ease the nervousness.
Risk Factors Associated With Nervousness
Nervousness is a normal reaction that everyone experiences to some degree.
Nervousness itself is not a condition to be diagnosed.
Nervousness is a natural reaction related to the fight-or-flight response.
While unpleasant, nervousness is not typically a problem in and of itself.
Nervousness may be a symptom of a condition, such as an anxiety disorder.
A Word From Verywell
Everybody feels nervous at times.
Nervousness is normal when we find ourselves in certain situations, like taking an exam.
Nervousness is normal and can even be beneficial.
Thestress hormones(such as adrenaline) that are produced when you are nervous can help you focus.
Nervousness is one possible symptom of anxiety disorders.
A person with an anxiety disorder does not just experience typical nervousness, though.
Anxiety disorders interfere with a person’s functioning in everyday life.
Nervousness may also be a symptom of other conditions, such ashyperthyroidism.
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