Understanding Anxiety vs. Stress: What You Need to Know
“Relax, take a breath, it will pass, stop stressing…” Sound familiar? These are all too common phrases we hear when we express feelings of anxiety. But let’s take a moment to pause and understand what’s really going on inside our minds and bodies. It’s important to distinguish between anxiety and stress, as they’re not the same thing, though they’re often used interchangeably. In fact, both emotions can serve a purpose and aren’t always negative depending on the impact it has on our day to day functioning. However, understanding the difference can help us better address how we feel.
Stress is a natural response to difficult or new situations. It’s a sense of worry or pressure that we experience when we’re confronted with a challenge. On the other hand, anxiety is a more intense feeling of fear or dread in situations that may not typically warrant such a reaction. While stress is often tied to a specific event or circumstance, anxiety can feel like a constant, overwhelming presence, even when nothing is necessarily "wrong."
Regardless of whether you’re experiencing stress or anxiety, your feelings are valid. We all have the right to our emotions, and it’s important to recognize them for what they are. Now, let’s dive into a few strategies to help manage these feelings when they arise.
Tips for Managing Stress and Anxiety
Check In With Your Body
Stress often manifests physically. If you’re feeling tightness in your shoulders, neck, or jaw, take a moment to notice it. A great way to release that tension is by doing some somatic stretches. One of my favorites is the "workout witch," which targets those stiff spots and helps you release pent-up stress.Ground Yourself
To center your mind, bring your focus to the present moment. Ask yourself, Right here, right now, am I safe? If the answer is no, find a place—either physically or mentally—where you can feel safe. Think of a peaceful place, like the beach. You can close your eyes and imagine the waves, or even look at pictures or videos of a serene location to help calm your mind.Check In With Your Thoughts
Our thoughts often feed into negative spirals. Are your thoughts contributing to the anxiety or stress you’re feeling? Reframe your thoughts. Instead of focusing on what’s going wrong, shift your focus to what you can control. By taking control of your thoughts, you can gain better control over your emotions.Close All the “Tabs” in Your Mind
We often have multiple things racing through our minds, all competing for attention. Try writing them down to declutter your mental space. If that doesn’t work, talk it out with someone you trust. Or, try dancing it out—movement can be a great way to release that built-up energy. Whatever helps you clear your mental “tabs,” make it a practice to let go of the clutter so your mind can reset.
By understanding the difference between stress and anxiety, and by practicing these strategies, you can gain a better sense of control over your emotions. It’s not about avoiding these feelings, but learning how to navigate them when they arise. You deserve to feel at peace, and with the right tools, it’s possible to find calm amidst the storm.
-Stephanie Felix, LCSW
