Stress vs. anxiety: The difference

We all know the feeling of pressure before a deadline or worry about an interview, but how do you know if what you're feeling is stress or anxiety? Here is how you can tell the difference.

Stress

Stress spikes and subsides; it is not a constant feeling. You probably experience stress when there's a work challenge or a pile of bills to be paid. Tiny triggers, like your morning commute, could lead to weird reactions such as stomachaches, hives and trouble focusing. But, once the bills are paid or you arrive at work after your commute, you feel lighter. Simply put, stress symptoms vanish.

Anxiety

It feels like stress, but it doesn’t stop, and you can’t figure out why. You may wake up full of dread, or you just can’t seem to shake the feeling that things are out of control. The stress prohibits you from working, concentrating or having fun. If, over a six-month period, you exhibit these symptoms and feelings more often than not, you may have anxiety.

I think I have anxiety

The best way to determine whether or not you have anxiety is to consult your physician. Don't have one?

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