Stress vs. Anxiety: How to Tell the Difference
By Magdalena Wieringa, RN, BScN, Mental Health Nurse, and Health Writer
In today's busy world, it's common to feel overwhelmed, but do you know if what you're experiencing is
just everyday stress—or is it anxiety? Stress and anxiety share many symptoms, and it can be hard to
tell them apart. Understanding the difference can help you manage them more effectively.
What is stress?
Stress is your body's natural response to a challenge or demand. It often shows up when you're facing
deadlines, financial worries, or family responsibilities. In fact, stress can actually be helpful in small
doses—it pushes us to take action, stay alert, and meet responsibilities.
Common signs of stress include:
• Muscle tension or headaches
• Trouble sleeping
• Feeling irritable or impatient
• Racing thoughts about a specific situation
Once the stress event passes—like finishing a project or resolving a conflict—stress usually eases.
What is anxiety?
Anxiety, on the other hand, is more than just a reaction to stress. It's an ongoing feeling of worry or
dread that doesn’t always match the situation. Sometimes, anxiety shows up even when there’s no
obvious cause.
Common signs of anxiety include:
• Persistent worry that feels hard to control
• Restlessness or feeling on edge
• Physical symptoms like a racing heart or upset stomach
• Avoiding situations out of fear or nervousness
Unlike stress, anxiety can linger long after the stressful moment has passed.
How to tell them apart
A simple way to think about it: stress is usually tied to an outside trigger—a work deadline, a busy
week, or a conflict. Anxiety can continue even when the trigger is gone. If your worries feel constant,
overwhelming, or interfere with daily life, it may be more than stress.
What can you do?
• **Breathe deeply.** Even a few minutes of slow, steady breathing can calm your nervous system.
• **Stay active.** Regular movement helps release built-up tension.
• **Talk it out.** Share what you're feeling with a trusted friend, family member, or counselor.
• **Set limits.** Learn to say no when your plate is too full.
And remember: if anxiety feels unmanageable or affects your daily life, reaching out to a healthcare
provider is a sign of strength—not weakness.
Final thoughts
Stress and anxiety can feel very similar, but they are not the same. By learning to recognize the
differences, you can take steps to truly support your mental health. Whether it’s pausing for a deep
breath, setting boundaries, or seeking professional help, small actions can make a big difference.