How do I differentiate stress from anxiety? | Learn the difference

Do your hands shake regularly? Or do you feel like you are always uncertain, scared and feeling a lot of pressure? You are probably uncertain about whether or not it’s a Panic Attack. Well,you are on the right page because I will tell you the difference between stress and anxiety.

The Covid-19 outbreak has shone a brighter spotlight on mental health than others have been in the past. New and heightened concerns for our own and our loved ones’ health, restrictions on physical movement and social activities, and abrupt lifestyle changes have all had an impact on our mental health.

Infection worries, frustration, boredom, insufficient resources, insufficient information, financial loss, and stigma were all recognized stresses in a recent assessment of virus outbreaks and pandemics.

Anxiety, worry, and fear are, however, natural reactions to some situations. These sensations serve to keep us vigilant and aware of potential dangers so that we know what to do in potentially harmful or challenging situations.

The majority of people will suffer stress and anxiety at some point in their lives. Depending on the amount of stress or anxiety, however, each of these conditions can hurt our daily life.

What Is the Definition of Stress?

Stress is the body’s natural reaction to a variety of changes, demands, or threats. Physical, emotional, or mental responses are all possible. Everyone has to deal with stress at some point in their lives. Individuals may react to stressors in different ways, with some reacting more strongly or frequently than others.

What exactly is anxiety?

Anxiety is a collection of feelings we experience when there are no evident current stressors – we often don’t know why we’re feeling anxious, but our bodies are experiencing a variety of side effects, like a racing heart, jitteriness, inability to focus, and even panic attacks.

Anxiety is characterized by extreme anxiety and worries about what might happen, and it can be perplexing and unpleasant for the individual because there is rarely a particular explanation.

How to identify the difference between stress and anxiety

When the stressors are removed, stress usually disappears. Chronic stress, on the other hand, can lead to anxiety or depression, therefore it’s critical to lessen or eliminate stress wherever feasible.

If you’re not sure if you’re suffering from stress, anxiety, or depression, speak with a health care practitioner as soon as possible to get the support you need. The road to recovery begins with determining the source of your problems and receiving the appropriate treatment.

The major types of stress

Acute stress, chronic stress, and episodic acute stress are the three types of stress, as characterized by the following:

1. Acute stress

This is a sort of stress that lasts for a short time and can be either good or negative; it is the type of stress we are most likely to encounter daily. Traffic jams, neighbour turmoil, and being late for a meeting are just a few examples.

2. Chronic stress

This is a type of long-term stress that appears to be unending and unavoidable. Pressure from a poisonous relationship, a hard career, or earlier traumatic experiences are all examples.

3. Episodic acute stress

Acute stress that occurs regularly appears to be prevalent and has become a way of life, resulting in a life of constant distress. Acute stress episodes that last weeks or months are referred to as chronic stress.

The major type of Anxiety

1. Anxiety Disorder in Social Situations

Many people suffer from a social anxiety disorder, which is a serious sort of anxiety. When a person suffers from a social anxiety disorder, they will have difficulty socializing with others.

2. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

This is a form of anxiety disorder in which a person feels anxious all of the time. If you have a generalized anxiety disorder, you may experience anxiety beneath the surface while performing a variety of jobs. Anxiety disorders like this can last a long time, and you may find yourself becoming nervous about routine activities. Even if there is nothing to be concerned about, you may feel anxious about certain aspects of your life.

3. Panic Disorder

You should also be aware of panic disorder, which is another type of anxiety condition. People with panic disorder will have panic attacks that might be rather severe at times. Physical symptoms such as chest aches, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and even disorientation can occur during panic attacks. When someone has a panic attack, they may also have stomach pain.

When should you seek assistance?

If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or others, you should get medical care right away. Anxiety and stress are treatable conditions with a variety of resources, tactics, and therapies available. If you can’t stop worrying and stress is affecting your everyday life, talk to your primary care provider about stress and anxiety management.

Psychotherapy/counselling, medication, and stress management approach, to mention a few, are some of the most prominent strategies for treating anxiety. Before your anxiety gets any worse, see your doctor oramental health professional. It is easier to treat if you seek care as soon as possible.

Take away

Because anxiety and stress share similar symptoms, it’s crucial to know the difference between the two so that you can get the best therapy. If you believe you or someone you care about suffers from either of these disorders, knowing the difference between stress and anxiety is the first step toward regaining control of your life and feeling better.