Nervousness - A Common Problem or Mental Health Disorder
Nervousness is a common problem that is experienced by most everyone from time to time. Feelings of nervousness or anxiety are completely normal responses to stressful situations. In some cases, however, being nervous can be a major problem. When agitation is ongoing or severe enough to have a negative impact on one's day to day activities, it may be a sign of a mental health disorder that requires medical attention.
What is Nervousness?
Feelings of nervousness can be described as worry or thoughts of a negative nature relating to future events. People who suffer from severe nervousness may feel anxious or fearful of perceived threats. When nervousness is a chronic problem, it is most often a symptom of an anxiety disorder.
Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety is a psychological condition that consists of numerous emotional, behavioral, cognitive, and physical symptoms. Patients often feel troubled or nervous about current or future events. Anxiety in itself is a completely normal response to certain situations. When the feelings of anxiousness and nervousness are overwhelming, excessive, or interfere with one's normal daily activities, an anxiety disorder is often to blame.
Overcoming Nervousness
Because nervousness is a normal human reaction to stressful situations, it can be difficult for patients to differentiate between normal feelings and a potential mental health disorder. An underlying disorder is often present when there are physical and emotional symptoms in addition to the feelings of nervousness. Physical symptoms may include chest pain, nausea, headaches, stomachaches, or shortness of breath. In addition to feelings of dread and nervousness, patients may also feel trapped or afraid. Nightmares, obsessions, and irritability are also common. Patients may begin to withdraw from certain situations where unpleasant feelings are expected. Nervous habits such as nail biting or foot tapping may also develop.
Diagnosing and Treating Nervousness
Doctors can determine if nervousness is a sign of an underlying mental health problem based upon the patient's symptoms and medical history. Nervousness may be treated utilizing a variety of techniques. The most effective method of treatment may vary greatly from patient to patient, and doctors may need to try numerous methods before finding a way of effectively managing an individual's nervousness. The most common methods include prescription anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications. Doctors may also recommend psychological counseling as a means of helping patients manage their anxiety. With treatment, patients are typically able to control their symptoms. Without treatment, feelings of nervousness may worse, and patients may develop anxiety that is more severe in nature.