Nervous Anxiety: What it Is, Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Nervous anxiety is known as acute anxiety, and it is characterized by being short-lived and related to a specific situation or a particular event that generates stress. In today’s world full of stress, obligations and worries, nervous anxiety has become a common phenomenon that affects a large number of people in different aspects of their lives. Understanding what nervous anxiety is, its underlying causes, associated symptoms and the treatment options available is essential to addressing this condition effectively.

In this PsychologyFor article, we will talk about Nervous anxiety: what it is, causes, symptoms and treatment. We will tell you why a person can suffer from this type of anxiety, how it manifests itself and what therapeutic approach is used in these cases.

What is nervous anxiety

Nervous anxiety is a emotional response what we experience in situations that we perceive as threatening or stressful. It is a feeling of restlessness and discomfort that can manifest itself in different ways in each individual. Nervous anxiety can vary in intensity and duration, from brief episodes to a constant presence in daily life.

When we experience nervous anxiety, our body prepares to face the situation perceived as threatening. This is due to a activation of the autonomic nervous system which causes physiological changes such as increased heart rate, rapid breathing and muscle tension.

On an emotional level, nervous anxiety can generate feelings of worry, nervousness and insecurity. It can also be accompanied by negative and catastrophic thoughts about the future, as well as difficulties concentrating and making decisions.

What if I have nervous anxiety every day

Nervous anxiety can affect different aspects of a person’s life, including academic or work performance, interpersonal relationships and quality of life in general. It can limit the activities a person is willing to do, and have a significant impact on their well-being.

It is important to keep in mind that nervous anxiety is a common experience and that we can all experience it at certain times in our lives. However, when this type of anxiety becomes persistent, excessive, or significantly interferes with our daily lives, it may be necessary to seek appropriate support and treatment.

Causes of nervous anxiety

Nervous anxiety can have various causes that contribute to its development and manifestation in people. Although they may vary from one individual to another, Several factors have been identified that can play a significant role in the development of this clinical picture. Next, we show you what causes nervous anxiety:

• Genetic factors: can influence the predisposition to nervous anxiety. It has been observed that there is a familial tendency to suffer from anxiety disorders, which suggests the existence of an underlying genetic basis.
• Environmental factors: Genes are not the only determining factor or cause of nervous anxiety. Environment and personal experiences also play a crucial role. A dysfunctional family environment, high levels of stress at work or in everyday life, social or cultural pressures, and significant life changes can increase the likelihood of experiencing nervous anxiety.
• Traumatic experiences: Psychological traumas or stressful experiences can also trigger or contribute to the development of nervous anxiety. Situations such as abuse, violence, significant losses, accidents or natural disasters can cause increased anxiety levels. These experiences can leave a lasting emotional mark and generate greater vulnerability to nervous anxiety.
• Chemical imbalances in the brain: can play an important role in the development of nervous anxiety. Low levels of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, have been found to be associated with an increased risk of anxiety.

It is important to highlight that these causes do not act in isolation, but rather interact with each other and with the individual vulnerability of each person. Nervous anxiety is a multifactorial condition in which both biological, psychological and environmental factors intervene.

ymptoms of nervous anxiety

Nervous anxiety manifests itself through a wide variety of symptoms emotional, cognitive, physical and behavioral, which can vary in intensity and duration from one person to another. Next, we show you what symptoms nervous anxiety causes:

• On an emotional level: People who experience nervous anxiety may feel constant and excessive worry. They may experience fear or fear without a specific cause, anticipating the worst in various situations. Additionally, they may experience irritability, difficulty relaxing, and a feeling of constant emotional tension.
• On a cognitive level: Nervous anxiety can lead to negative and catastrophic thoughts, difficulty concentrating or maintaining attention, and problems making decisions. People may have a persistent feeling that something bad is going to happen and may have difficulty controlling their anxious thoughts.
• On a physical level: Symptoms of nervous anxiety may include palpitations, insomnia, excessive sweating, tremors, muscle tension, headaches, stomach discomfort, difficulty breathing, or feeling short of breath. Additionally, they may experience feelings of dizziness, chest tightness, hot flashes, or chills.
• Behavior: People with nervous anxiety may constantly seek safety and avoid situations they perceive as threatening. They may have difficulty falling asleep or maintaining restful sleep, and may experience changes in appetite, such as weight loss or gain.

It is important to note that nervous anxiety can manifest itself in different ways in each individual. Some people may experience intense and recurring panic attacks, while others may have more subtle but constant symptoms in their daily lives.

Treatment of nervous anxiety

The process of removing nervous anxiety may involve a combination of therapeutic approaches and lifestyle changes. The main goal of treatment is reduce symptoms of anxiety, Improve Life Quality and help the person develop effective skills to manage stress and triggering situations.

Below, we show you different ways to relieve nervous anxiety:

• Psychological therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a therapy widely used in the treatment of nervous anxiety. Helps identify and change negative and harmful thoughts and behavior patterns associated with anxiety. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, can also be used to help reduce anxiety.
• Medication– In some cases, medications may be prescribed by a mental health professional to treat nervous anxiety. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications are the most commonly used types of medications. It is important to discuss the benefits and risks of medication with a doctor, as each case is unique.
• Complementary therapies: Some people find complementary therapies such as acupuncture, aromatherapy, or mindfulness helpful. These therapies can be used as a complement to other forms of treatment for nervous anxiety. Discover what mindfulness is and how it is practiced.
• Healthy life style: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can have a positive impact on nervous anxiety. This may include habits such as regular physical exercise, a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and avoiding excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption.
• Social support: Having a strong support system can be a huge help in managing nervous anxiety. Sharing your concerns and experiences with family, friends, or support groups can provide a sense of understanding and emotional relief.

This article is merely informative, at PsychologyFor we do not have the power to make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment. We invite you to go to a psychologist to treat your particular case.

If you want to read more articles similar to Nervous anxiety: what it is, causes, symptoms and treatment we recommend that you enter our Clinical Psychology category.

Bibliography

• Matthew, M.E. (2015). Sexual assault in adolescents: Psychosocial consequences. University panameric.
• Soto-Vásquez, MR, Alan, P., Alvarado-García, A., and De Farmacia, F. (2016). Aromatherapy based on satureja brevicalyx “inka muña” essential oil and mindfulness meditation in the treatment of anxiety. Naturopathic medicine, 10(1), 47-52. https://dialnet.unirioja.es/descarga/articulo/5302258.pdf
• Stekel, W. (2013). Conditions Of Nervous Anxiety And Their Treatment. Routledge.