The Difference Between Normal Stress and an Anxiety Disorder

Everyone feels stress from time to time. A big deadline at work, a tough exam, or a conflict with a friend can leave you feeling tense or worried. This kind of stress is part of everyday life, and most people are able to manage it and move forward. But when worry and tension become constant, overwhelming, or start interfering with daily life, it may be more than stress - it may be an anxiety disorder.

What is normal stress?

Stress is your body’s natural response to challenges or demands. It often comes with physical symptoms like a racing heart, sweaty palms, or muscle tension. While unpleasant, stress usually passes once the situation is resolved. For example, you may feel stressed before a big presentation, but once it is over, the tension eases.

What makes anxiety different?

Anxiety disorders go beyond typical stress. They involve ongoing worry or fear that does not go away, even when the stressful event is over, or sometimes even when there is no clear reason to worry at all. Anxiety can affect your sleep, concentration, and relationships, leaving you feeling drained or constantly "on edge.”

Signs you may be experiencing an anxiety disorder

• Worry that feels constant and difficult to control

• Trouble sleeping due to racing thoughts

• Physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, or muscle pain

• Avoiding situations because of fear or nervousness

• Difficulty concentrating or feeling restless much of the time

Why the distinction matters

Recognizing the difference between stress and an anxiety disorder is important because treatment can look very different. While everyday stress can often be managed with healthy habits like exercise or relaxation, anxiety disorders usually require additional support such as therapy or, in some cases, medication.

How therapy helps with anxiety

Therapy provides tools to manage anxious thoughts and calm the body’s stress response. In anxiety treatment, you can learn practical strategies like mindfulness, grounding exercises, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to break the cycle of worry. Over time, therapy helps you feel more in control, less overwhelmed, and more capable of handling life’s challenges.

At Etheridge Psychology, we provide anxiety therapy in Cary, NC, for children, teens, and adults. If stress has turned into constant worry that affects your daily life, therapy can help you find relief and restore balance.