Table of Contents What Is Stress? What Is Anxiety? Anxiety vs. Stress: The Key Differences What Stress and Anxiety Have in Common How Stress and Anxiety Can Affect the Mind and Body Can Stress Cause or Contribute to Anxiety? How Can You Tell Whether You Are Experiencing Stress or Anxiety? When Stress or Anxiety Starts Affecting Daily Life Practical Ways to Manage Everyday Stress and Anxiety When to Consider Professional Support Questions to Reflect On Frequently Asked Questions About Anxiety and Stress Conclusion Final Notes Trusted Mental-Health Resources References Medical Disclaimer About the Author Introduction Stress and anxiety can feel remarkably similar. Both may leave you tense, distracted, restless, exhausted, or unable to sleep. That overlap can make it difficult to understand what you are experiencing—especially when a stressful situation continues for weeks or when worry remains even after the original problem has passed. There is an important distinction, however. Stress ...