Stress and anxiety share similar symptoms. But stress is usually short-term and tied to a clear threat, while anxiety can stick around without an obvious cause.
Both stress and anxiety are part of the body’s natural fight-or-flight response—the way we react to danger. This response keeps us alert, focused, and ready to handle threats.
While stress and anxiety are normal, they can sometimes feel overwhelming.
This article breaks down the differences and similarities between stress and anxiety, explores ways to manage them, and explains when it might be time to seek medical help.
Differences Between Stress and Anxiety
Stress and anxiety both stem from the body’s fight-or-flight response. When we sense danger, stress hormones kick in.
These hormones make the heart beat faster, sending more blood to the organs and limbs. This prepares the body to either fight or flee. Breathing speeds up, blood pressure rises, and the senses sharpen. At the same time, the body releases nutrients into the bloodstream to fuel energy where it’s needed.
This whole process happens in a flash—what experts call stress. Anxiety, on the other hand, is how the body reacts to that stress.
Many people know anxiety as that uneasy, restless feeling before a big event. It keeps us on high alert.
The fight-or-flight response can be triggered by real or perceived threats—physical or emotional. While helpful in dangerous situations, it can sometimes disrupt daily life.
Symptoms
Stress and anxiety share many symptoms. When stressed, someone might experience:
- Faster heartbeat
- Quickened breathing
- Anxious thoughts
- Mood swings, irritability, or anger
- General unhappiness
- Feeling overwhelmed
- Loneliness
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea or constipation
With anxiety, symptoms can include:
- Faster heartbeat
- Quickened breathing
- A sense of dread or unease
- Sweating
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Nervousness
- Muscle tension
- Restlessness
Mental Health Resources
For more expert-backed info on mental well-being, check out our dedicated hub.
How to Tell Stress from Anxiety
Since stress and anxiety trigger the same bodily response, their symptoms overlap. The key difference? Stress is usually short-lived and linked to a clear cause, while anxiety can linger without a specific trigger.
Treatment and Management
There are several ways to cope with stress and anxiety, including:
1. Relaxation Techniques
- Breathing exercises
- Focusing on calming words like peace or calm
- Visualizing a peaceful scene (e.g., a beach or meadow)
- Yoga or tai chi
- Slowly counting to 10
2. Exercise
Physical activity—whether walking, cycling, running, or gentle movements like yoga and qigong—can help relieve tension.
3. Talking It Out
Sharing worries with a trusted friend, family member, or therapist (in person, by phone, or online) can ease stress.
The Anxiety and Depression Association of America recommends:
- Accepting that not everything is in your control
- Aiming for “good enough” instead of perfection
- Identifying stress and anxiety triggers
- Cutting back on caffeine and alcohol
- Eating balanced meals
- Getting enough sleep
- Exercising daily
Can Stress Turn into Anxiety?
Yes—stress is the body’s reaction to a threat, and anxiety is the reaction to that stress. Over time, stress can develop into anxiety.
When to See a Doctor
Stress and anxiety aren’t always bad—they’re natural, short-term reactions that keep us safe. But if they become constant or overwhelming, it may be time to seek help. Watch for:
- Anxiety that disrupts daily life
- Using drugs or alcohol to cope
- Unreasonable fears
- Major changes in sleep, eating, or hygiene habits
- Persistent low mood
- Self-harm or suicidal thoughts
- Feeling out of control
Summary
Stress and anxiety are normal responses to danger or worry—part of the fight-or-flight system that protects us.
- Stress = the body’s reaction to a threat
- Anxiety = the body’s reaction to stress
Relaxation techniques, exercise, and talking things out can help manage them. But if they start taking over your life, speaking to a doctor is a good idea.