PsychologyAugust 9, 2026

hypervigilance

hy-per-VIJ-uh-luns

Definition

A state of heightened arousal and sensory sensitivity, often characterized by an exaggerated tendency to be constantly on guard for threats.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek prefix 'hyper-' (over or beyond) and the Latin 'vigilantia' (watchfulness). It entered English to describe an excessive state of alertness often associated with psychological stress or trauma.

In the news

The article lists hypervigilance as a debilitating symptom of PTSD that the MDMA-assisted therapy aims to address, along with insomnia and anxiety.

80% of Soldiers in Israeli Study See PTSD Symptoms Ease With MDMA Therapy, According to Study

Read the full article ↗

The Media Line

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