Nervous vs. Upset

Attribute	Nervous	Upset
Emotion	Feeling of anxiety or fear	Feeling of anger or frustration
Physical Symptoms	Butterflies in stomach, sweating, trembling	Clenched jaw, tense muscles, tears
Cause	Anxiety or stress	Anger or disappointment
Response	Increased heart rate, difficulty concentrating	Crying, yelling, expressing emotions

Definition

When comparing the attributes of nervous and upset, it is important to first understand the definitions of these two emotions. Nervousness is typically characterized by feelings of anxiety, worry, or fear about something that is about to happen. It is often accompanied by physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, or a racing heart. On the other hand, being upset refers to feeling angry, disappointed, or sad about something that has already happened. It is a reaction to a specific event or situation that has caused emotional distress.

Causes

The causes of nervousness and being upset can vary significantly. Nervousness is often triggered by uncertainty or anticipation of a future event. For example, someone may feel nervous before a job interview, a first date, or a public speaking engagement. On the other hand, being upset is usually a response to a specific event or situation that has caused emotional distress. This could be anything from a disagreement with a friend or loved one to a disappointing outcome at work or school.

Physical Symptoms

Both nervousness and being upset can manifest in physical symptoms, although they may differ slightly. When someone is nervous, they may experience symptoms such as sweating, trembling, a racing heart, or an upset stomach. These physical manifestations are often a result of the body's fight-or-flight response to perceived danger or threat. On the other hand, being upset may lead to symptoms such as crying, yelling, or even physical aggression. These physical expressions of emotion are a way for the body to release pent-up energy and tension.

Duration

The duration of nervousness and being upset can also differ. Nervousness is often a temporary state that subsides once the anticipated event has passed. For example, someone may feel nervous before giving a presentation, but once it is over, their anxiety diminishes. Being upset, on the other hand, can linger for a longer period of time. It may take days, weeks, or even months for someone to fully process and move on from a situation that has caused them emotional distress.

Impact on Behavior

Both nervousness and being upset can have a significant impact on behavior. When someone is nervous, they may exhibit behaviors such as fidgeting, avoiding eye contact, or speaking quickly. These behaviors are often a result of the body's physiological response to stress and anxiety. On the other hand, being upset may lead to behaviors such as yelling, crying, or withdrawing from social interactions. These behaviors are a way for the individual to express their emotions and cope with the situation that has upset them.

Coping Mechanisms

When it comes to coping with nervousness and being upset, individuals may employ different strategies. For nervousness, techniques such as deep breathing, visualization, or positive self-talk can help to calm the mind and body. These strategies are often used to manage anxiety and reduce the physical symptoms associated with nervousness. On the other hand, coping with being upset may involve talking to a friend or therapist, engaging in physical activity, or practicing mindfulness. These coping mechanisms are aimed at processing emotions, gaining perspective, and moving forward from the upsetting event.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while nervousness and being upset are both emotional states that can cause distress, they differ in their definitions, causes, physical symptoms, duration, impact on behavior, and coping mechanisms. Understanding the distinctions between these two emotions can help individuals better manage their feelings and navigate challenging situations. Whether feeling nervous about an upcoming event or upset about a past event, it is important to recognize and address these emotions in a healthy and constructive way.