British adults more likely to be stressed out than excited by most scenarios, new poll finds

Average person suffers anxiety-induced sweat four times a week

Presentations were high up on the list of things that made people hot under the collar (iStock)

A job interview is the scenario most likely to leave British people feeling hot under the collar — ahead of being the centre of attention, something not going to plan and doing a presentation.

The study of 2,000 UK adults revealed meeting the in-laws for the first time, the first day of a job and taking part in a new gym class are also among the times when nerves get the better of them.

It also emerged the average adult gets hot under the collar four times a week, with these awkward moments most likely to take place in the workplace (42 per cent), followed by in public (34 per cent).

But the research, commissioned by Sure, found nervous Britons are more likely to be stressed out than excited by most scenarios.

Blind dates, taking part in an important sports match, answering a phone, returning to the office and a job interview are more likely to be considered stressful experiences instead of exciting.

However, telling someone you love them or seeing friends you haven’t seen in a while are considered exciting rather than stressful.

Alice Duffill, from Sure, which commissioned the research as part of The UK Confidence Report, said: “We all have stressful or nerve-wracking moments that are also exciting.

“In these situations, or just in everyday life, we are really tested, and it results in us physically heating up.”

The study also found that to calm down after getting hot under the collar, 39 per cent will take deep breaths, 34 per cent will stop and take things one at a time and 27 per cent will go outside for some fresh air.

But while we are most likely to feel relieved (61 per cent) after making it through the other side of a stressful situation, we are three times more likely to be worn out than energetic.

Four in 10 also admitted they are a nervous or anxious sweater – breaking into a sweat when caught off guard.

Top 20 things that make adults in Britain nervous

1. A job interview

2. Being caught ‘off guard’

3. When something doesn’t go to plan

4. Doing a presentation

5. Being the centre of attention in a big crowd

6. Meeting someone for the first time

7. Going on a first date

8. Doing a performance such as singing or acting

9. Trying something new for the first time

10. Being the first person to arrive at an event

11. Answering the phone to an unknown number

12. Hosting people to stay at your house

13. Making a phone call

14. Hosting a dinner party

15. Going on a blind date

16. Hosting a work meeting

17. Meeting your partner’s friends for the first time

18. Returning to the office after time away

19. Meeting the in-laws

20. Meeting your friend’s wider friendship circle

As a result, adults in Britain give themselves a pep talk, wear an outfit they love and use an antiperspirant they trust to boost their confidence.

Other ways to prepare for a stressful or pressured situation include people taking care of their appearance by wearing makeup or styling their hair, or going to an early morning workout class.

However, the survey also revealed two thirds (66 per cent) wish they had more confidence.

As a result, 38 per cent of those polled via OnePoll, to celebrate the launch of Sure’s Advanced Protection range, look up to others for a confidence boost, with 53 per cent admitting they get stressed or anxious easily.

A fear that they’ve just embarrassed themselves (42 per cent) is the most likely reason for feeling stressed or under pressure, followed by being afraid of making mistakes (39 per cent) and a desire to perform at their best (31 per cent).

Ms Duffill added: “Life comes with a rollercoaster of emotions, some of the most exciting times can also be nerve-wracking – but that’s what ultimately makes them feel so special.”

SWNS