We often hear stress and anxiety being used interchangeably. Anxiety and stress also share some similar symptoms like headaches, excessive worry, fatigue, irritability, increased heart rate, and muscle tension. It’s important to understand the differences so that you can better manage stress and anxiety.

Now let’s look at the differences between stress and anxiety. Stress is generally a response to an external cause. More specifically, stress is a physiological and behavioral response to an immediate challenge or threat. For example, you can be stressed because you got into an argument with your friend. You may feel worried, have difficulty concentrating, and get a headache. After talking to your friend later that day and resolving the argument, your stress and its symptoms will likely diminish.

The common symptoms of stress include irritability, nervousness, tension, worry, fatigue, sleep problems, headaches, and indigestion. Remember that stress can affect our emotions, our body, and how we behave. Learn to pay attention to your mind and body so you can learn to better recognize how you experience stress.

Anxiety is typically characterized as a persistent feeling of dread or apprehension in situations that aren’t really threatening. Unlike stress, anxiety persists even after a concern has passed. In other words, anxiety is the constant, unsubstantiated worrying of uncertain outcomes. For example, you might be anxious about talking with your boss despite never having any problems with your boss. Yet you continue to worry and feel anxious.

The common symptoms of anxiety include worrying, fear, feeling tense, faster breathing, and restlessness. As mentioned above, learn to pay closer attention to your body and mind so you can better recognize how you experience anxiety.

Some suggestions for better managing your anxiety and/or stress include:

Deep breathing exercises.

Make time to sleep at least 7 hours per night.

Exercise.

Journal - write about what you’re feeling and what you need.

Make time for mindful moments of breathing throughout the day.

If you’re looking for help with your stress and/or anxiety, please contact me to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation.