Both stress and anxiety can affect your mind and body. Both are a natural part of the fight or flight response. Both stress and anxiety can cause the following symptoms: excessive worry, apprehension, tension headaches or body pain, high blood pressure, and/or loss of sleep. So, am I stressed, or do I have anxiety? One question you may ask yourself is: is there an identified stressor? Stress is generally a response to an external event. This event can be short-term such as a work deadline, a fight with a loved one, or inability to find a new job. Anxiety is generally an internal event defined by constant worry without an identifiable trigger.
Can one turn into the other? Absolutely, stress is the body’s reaction to a threat and anxiety is the body’s reaction to stress. Unlike stress, anxiety persists even if there’s no immediate threat. It is important to manage anxiety symptoms early to prevent the development of an anxiety disorder.
Both mild stress and mild anxiety can be managed with similar coping skills. Here’s a list of healthy ways to manage anxiety and stress:
1) Reach out to family and friends: Strong social supports can improve resilience to stress.
2) Stick to a sleep routine: Make sure you are getting enough sleep. Try to have a consistent sleep routine that allows you to wind down.
3) Identify and challenge your negative thoughts: Reframe your thinking. Our thoughts control our emotions, which in turn influence our behaviors.
4) Get physical: Take a brisk 30-minute walk or go for a run. Physical activity can help people combat stressful situations.
5) Seek professional help: If you are struggling to cope or the symptoms just won’t go away; reach out to a licensed mental health professional for help.
Anxiety vs. Stress: What’s the Difference?
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