Although stress and anxiety are feelings that each of us has experienced many times in our lives, paradoxically we often fail to distinguish between these states. While both prepare our bodies to act in the face of danger, stress is usually short-term and occurs in response to a recognisable threat. Anxiety, on the other hand, can last longer and we are not always able to identify why it has occurred.
Both stress and anxiety are the body's response to danger and the person becomes alert and focused. It is a kind of instinctive behaviour - when someone feels threatened, the body automatically releases stress hormones.
These hormones cause the heart to start beating faster, and this leads to more blood flow to the brain and limbs. Breathing starts to quicken, blood pressure rises. The senses become sharpened.
The above process happens very quickly in the human body, and experts call it stress. Anxiety, in turn, is the body's reaction to this stress.
Stress usually has a specific cause, such as work, personal problems, difficult life situations, deadlines, conflicts, life changes. Simply put, stress is the body's response to challenges.
Anxiety is more related to anticipation of negative events in the future or to unspecified fears. It can occur for no apparent reason or as a result of traumatic experiences. Anxiety is often more general and longer-lasting than stress.
Stress versus anxiety: differences, photo: panthermedia
What are the physical reactions to stress and anxiety?
Symptoms of stress can include:
- muscle tension,
- headache,
- rapid heartbeat,
- excessive sweating,
- sleep problems.
However, this is all in the context of a specific situation.
Stress can trigger specific physiological responses in response to stimuli (e.g. fear of public speaking).
Anxiety symptoms, on the other hand, can be more intense and prolonged. In addition to accelerated heart rate and muscle tension, they may also occur:
- difficulty breathing,
- dizziness,
- body trembling,
- an excessive sense of anxiety and apprehension, which are not always related to a real threat.
Anxiety and fear: how to recognise, photo: panthermedia
Are there ways to cope with these conditions?
In many cases, stress can be alleviated or overcome through lifestyle changes such as rest, relaxation techniques or solving the problem that is causing the stress.
In the case of anxiety, the process is more complex as it is often more difficult to control, especially when it is chronic. It may require therapeutic intervention or pharmacological treatment.
Stress and anxiety are perfectly normal reactions to threatening or worrying situations. They are an intrinsic part of our lives and should not always be defined in terms of evil. They are part of a reaction that helps us to stay safe, preparing us to face the threat.
However, sometimes stress and anxiety can overwhelm. When this happens, it can lead to chronic stress or an anxiety disorder. Anyone who notices that stress or anxiety is interfering with their daily life should consult a doctor.