The Upsides of Anxiety and Nervousness

We frequently hear about anxiety's drawbacks, but what about the potential upsides or advantages of living with it? Anxiety is an emotion marked by extreme fear, worry, and apprehension.

People who experience anxiety frequently describe it as a distressing sense of nervousness and dread that can best be distracting or all-consuming at worst. Anxiety typically manifests on various levels, influencing emotions, resulting in unpleasant physical symptoms, and contributing to negative thoughts.

Positive Effects

Anxiety disorders, including panic disorder, frequently cause these anxiety symptoms. However, have you thought about the possible positive effects of having anxiety?

Scientists have discovered that some degree of tension or anxiety is not necessarily bad.

Good stress, also known as eustress, keeps us active and excited about life. Some degree of anxiety seems to have similar "silver linings." Let's examine what they've learned.

Anxiety as a Warning Sign

Anxiety might serve as the warning signal you need to become aware of your current circumstances and make necessary adjustments. Recurrent worry and anxiety may indicate that some aspects of your life need correction.

For instance, you might realize that a relationship is no longer functional, your work is causing you significant stress, or financial problems are making you lose sleep and feel anxious.

Although your symptoms may be difficult to manage, investigating and managing your anxiety can provide a real opportunity for personal growth.

Consider any messages your anxiety may have for you and the potential adjustments you might need to make in your life the next time it strikes.

Anxiety-Induced Motivation

Anxiety may not always be seen as a barrier; instead, it might actually help you feel more prepared and motivated when confronted with obstacles. Studies have demonstrated that students and athletes who experienced some anxiety actually performed better on tests or in competitive sports. Similarly, individuals with a good working memory may experience a boost in performance on cognitive evaluations due to some level of anxiety. Consider how your anxiety encourages you to succeed in certain areas of your life.

For instance, maybe your anxiety prompts you to put more effort into your work or personal responsibilities, leave a good impression, or advance your objectives. Consider ways to harness your anxiety as a source of inspiration for personal development and progress.

Built-In Warning System

Despite its apparent futility at times, anxiety serves a purpose. These symptoms and feelings are inherent elements of our stress response. Anxiety is meant to protect us from danger and allow us to react more quickly in emergencies, known as the fight-or-flight response.

The fight-or-flight stress reaction enabled our ancestors to either retaliate or flee from life-threatening risks like dangerous animals or climatic conditions.

Anxiety may be a symptom in modern times that enables you to respond quickly to avoid a vehicle accident while driving or refrain from entering a dangerous setting or circumstance.

According to one U.K. study, teenagers who experienced anxiety had fewer accidents and accidental deaths in early adulthood than those who did not. Anxiety, therefore, may be a warning to keep you safe.

Positive Personality Trait in Friendship

People who have dealt with anxiety may be more understanding and empathetic to the problems that others face. Having experienced personal difficulties, you may display more sensitivity, affection, and acceptance when friends and family experience personal difficulties.

It has been demonstrated that people with anxiety are more concerned about how they interact with others. Have you noticed that you sometimes act as just the friend someone needs?

In Leadership

People with anxiety might also be effective leaders because they carefully consider the possibility of many outcomes. For instance, many people with anxiety report being highly aware of what might go wrong, making them more cautious thinkers, thorough decision-makers, and excellent problem solvers.

A Word From Verywell

Although anxiety can have some potential benefits, it can also significantly hinder various aspects of your life. Your career, relationships, and personal goals may all suffer as a result of your battle with anxiety.

Consider seeking professional help if anxiety prevents you from living the life you want. Your medical provider or therapist can determine if your symptoms meet the diagnostic criteria for an anxiety disorder like panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or social anxiety disorder (SAD). They can also assist you in developing a treatment plan to better cope with your anxiety.