An enhanced state of alertness and scanning for threats in the environment, often accompanied by an exaggerated startle response and difficulty relaxing. This symptom is commonly seen in post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety disorders, and other stress-related conditions.
From Greek 'hyper-' (over, above) and Latin 'vigilantia' (watchfulness). The term gained prominence in the late 20th century through research on trauma responses and PTSD, describing an adaptive survival mechanism that becomes maladaptive when persistent.
Hypervigilance keeps the sympathetic nervous system chronically activated, leading to exhaustion, sleep problems, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease - essentially, the body remains in 'fight or flight' mode even when safe. Military veterans with PTSD often describe hypervigilance as constantly scanning exits in restaurants or being unable to sit with their back to a door.
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