hypervigiliance

Definition

A state of increased sensory sensitivity accompanied by an exaggerated intensity of behaviors whose purpose is to detect threats.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek prefix 'hyper-' (over) and the Latin 'vigilantia' (watchfulness). It entered English in the late 19th century as a clinical term describing an abnormal, heightened state of alertness.

In the news

The article lists hypervigilance as a common symptom of vicarious trauma experienced by lawyers who work within the criminal justice system, highlighting the mental health toll of their practice.

Why peer support matters for healthy lawyers

Law Society Journal

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