Stress and anxiety are often used interchangeably and overlap in how we experience them. Defining the terms can help you identify what you are working with and where you might want support.

• Stress is a response to specific cause, such as a tight deadline at work or a challenging life event, and usually subsides once the situation is resolved. 

• Anxiety, on the other hand, is a persistent feeling of worry or fear that doesn't always have a clear cause and can linger even after the stressful situation has passed. 

Both anxiety and stress can be helpful in many situations. For example, the "fight-or-flight" reaction is the body's way of preparing to face a threat or challenge. This can help you stay alert when driving or maintain your focus when performing an important task.

But many people experience anxiety or stress that is frequent or severe enough that it interrupts their life. That is when this normal bodily response could be called a "symptom"; when it hijacks your plan for the day or prevents you from responding to the source of the stress.

Because there are different ways that anxiety and stress can be problematic, it is helpful to talk with a professional to explore how these experiences are showing up in your life.