Nervousness
What is Nervousness?
Nervousness is an emotion characterized by feelings of apprehension, fear, worry, and unease. Nerves can be caused by many factors, such as preparing for a high-stakes test, wondering how a job interview will go, or simply feeling overwhelmed by a large workload. In some cases, these feelings can paralyze us with fear and limit how we approach our daily activities.
Signs and Symptoms of Nervousness
Nervousness can manifest in physical and emotional ways. Common signs and symptoms of nerves include:
- Rapid heart rate
- Rapid breathing
- Sweating and trembling
- Upset stomach and nausea
- Headaches
- Feeling tense or keyed up
- Poor concentration
- Feeling easily frustrated
- Low self-esteem
It's important to recognize that nervousness, in and of itself, is not a disorder. It's a normal part of life and a perfectly healthy response to challenging or unfamiliar situations. However, when nerves start to interfere with daily life, they can indicate an underlying psychologicalor physical disorder.
What Causes Nervousness?
The root cause of nerves can vary from person to person. Common causes include:
- Stressful life events
- Social anxiety
- Panic disorder
- Performance anxiety
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Phobias
In some cases, nerves may be caused by a medical condition, such as a thyroid disorder or a vitamin deficiency. Nerves can also be triggered by lifestyle factors, such as drinking alcohol or getting too little sleep. It's important to speak to a medical professional to rule out any underlying health issues.
Tips For Managing Nervousness
Nerves can be a difficult emotion to deal with, but there are some simple steps that can help:
- Take deep breaths and focus on calming your body through physical relaxation.
- Engage in mindfulness exercises and meditation, which can help to reduce stress levels.
- Exercise regularly, as this can boost your mood and promote relaxation.
- Talk to a mental health professional, who can help you understand the cause of your nerves and address any underlying mental health issues.
- Try journaling, which can help you take an honest look at your thoughts and feelings.
- Practice healthy coping mechanisms, such as taking a walk, watching a movie, or engaging in a creative activity.