Understanding the Difference Between Stress and Anxiety

Many people use the words stress and anxiety interchangeably — but they are not the same.

Understanding the difference can help you recognize what you are feeling and decide when it may be time to seek support.

What is Stress?

Stress is your body’s response to a specific challenge or demand.

It usually happens when something is happening right now — and often improves once the situation passes.

Common causes of stress:

• Health concerns
• Financial worries
• Changes in routine
• Caregiving responsibilities
• Loss of a loved one
• Moving or major life transitions

Stress often comes from an identifiable “stressor” — something that feels demanding or overwhelming.

How stress may feel:

• Feeling tense or overwhelmed
• Trouble sleeping
• Headaches or muscle tightness
• Irritability
• Difficulty concentrating

💡 Stress is often temporary and improves when the situation changes.

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What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a feeling of ongoing worry or fear, even when there is no immediate threat.

Unlike stress, anxiety may:

• Continue after a stressful event is over
• Appear without a clear cause
• Become persistent or interfere with daily life

How anxiety may feel:

• Constant worrying
• Restlessness
• Racing thoughts
• Feeling “on edge”
• Trouble relaxing
• Avoiding activities or situations

Anxiety can develop when stress becomes long-lasting or overwhelming and the body’s response system stays activated over time.

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Key Differences At-A-Glance

Stress	Anxiety
Linked to a specific situation	May occur without a clear cause
Often temporary	Can persist over time
Improves when the stressor resolves	May continue even after the stress is gone
External trigger (ex: illness, finances)	Internal worry or fear

Can You Have Both?

Yes.

Ongoing stress can sometimes lead to anxiety.

For example:

• Caring for a loved one may start as stress
• Over time, constant worry may develop into anxiety

You can also have ongoing anxiety, and then new stressors may present.

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Why This Matters for Older Adults

Both stress and anxiety can impact:

• Sleep
• Memory
• Blood pressure
• Immune function
• Chronic conditions

Long-term stress or anxiety can affect overall health if left unaddressed.

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When to Talk to Your Doctor

Consider speaking with your healthcare provider if you notice:

• Worry that does not go away
• Sleep problems lasting weeks
• Loss of interest in daily activities
• Feeling overwhelmed most days
• Physical symptoms (chest tightness, headaches, fatigue)
• Avoiding social situations

Always ask your healthcare provider for specific advice on when to call to report symptoms, and when to seek urgent/emergency care.  

Support and treatment options are available — including lifestyle strategies, counseling, and medical care when appropriate.

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Simple Ways to Support Emotional Wellness

You may find relief with:

• Gentle physical activity
• Social connection
• Relaxation techniques (deep breathing, prayer, meditation)
• Consistent routines
• Talking with trusted family or friends

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Medical Disclaimer

This resource is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. Emotional and mental health experiences vary from person to person. If you are experiencing persistent distress, significant worry, or changes in mood or behavior, please consult your healthcare provider. Seek immediate medical attention if you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or feel unsafe – call 911 or 988.

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Sources:

• https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/so-stressed-out-fact-sheet
• https://www.nimh.nih.gov/sites/default/files/documents/health/publications/so-stressed-out-fact-sheet/Im-So-Stressed-Out.pdf