Meaning of "Anxiety (Get Nervous)" by Pat Benatar

The lyrics of "Anxiety (Get Nervous)" delve into the overwhelming emotions and sensations that come with anxiety. The repetition of "get nervous" throughout the song emphasizes the persistent and cyclical nature of anxiety. The narrator describes feeling shaky and unable to control their nerves, and despite others potentially perceiving them as "freakin'," they cannot help the physical and mental reactions anxiety provokes. The fear associated with anxiety is highlighted as the feeling gathers in their throat and takes their breath away.

The song explores the struggle of dealing with anxiety when there is no one to turn to for support. The narrator expresses the desire to find somebody fast, indicating a desperate need for help to alleviate their anxiety. They mention the inability to find sleep and a longing for relaxation, but their mind constantly runs, making it impossible to find peace. The line "I wish I could collapse but my body's not that kind" suggests a yearning for a shutdown or relief from the physical and mental strain anxiety causes, but the body is unable to comply.

In the midst of anxiety, the narrator's heartbeat becomes amplified and becomes a symbol for their heightened state of distress. They long for something to slow it down and bring them comfort. The reference to pounding on windows like a bee in a jar conveys the sense of feeling trapped within their own anxiety, unable to find a way out. This image captures the suffocating and overwhelming nature of anxiety, where escaping its clutches seems nearly impossible.

Overall, the song conveys the debilitating nature of anxiety and the desperate need for someone or something to help ease its grip. It captures the physical manifestations of anxiety and the longing for relief. Pat Benatar gives a voice to those experiencing anxiety, depicting the frustration, fear, and yearning for support.