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Anxiety is accurately defined as a sense of nervousness or a need to escape a situation. It encompasses feelings of worry, apprehension, or fear about future events, which can manifest physically and psychologically. This definition captures the essence of anxiety, as it often involves feelings of distress and discomfort that arise in response to stressors or perceived threats.

In the context of mental health, anxiety can vary in intensity and may be a normal response to stress. However, when these feelings become overwhelming or excessively interfere with daily life, they may indicate an anxiety disorder. This distinction emphasizes the adaptive nature of anxiety, which can serve as a protective mechanism in certain situations, but may also require attention and management when it becomes disruptive.

The other definitions do not align with the core understanding of anxiety. Feelings of relaxation and calmness suggest a state of ease that contrasts sharply with the experience of anxiety. Intense excitement, while potentially linked to certain situations, does not reflect the apprehensive and constricting feelings associated with anxiety. Complete apathy indicates a lack of interest or concern, which is oppositional to the heightened emotional state typically experienced in anxiety.