Stress vs. Anxiety: How to Tell the Difference (and When to Get Help)

One of the most common questions therapists are asked: "What is the difference between stress and anxiety?". We have all heard the terms being used interchangeably, which can lead to confusion about what you are experiencing. We are here to break this down for you, and explain practical ways you can manage each one.

We’ve all felt stress before—deadlines, family responsibilities, unexpected changes. Stress is a normal part of life, but sometimes those feelings of pressure don’t go away. Instead, they linger, grow, and start to feel overwhelming. That’s when many people wonder: Is this just stress, or is it anxiety?

Understanding the difference between stress and anxiety can help you know when it’s time to seek support, whether through lifestyle changes, coping strategies, or therapy in Sarnia.

What Is Stress?

Stress is your body’s natural response to a challenge or demand. It’s often caused by external pressures—like work deadlines, financial worries, or caring for loved ones.

Signs of stress can include:

• Muscle tension or headaches

• Difficulty sleeping

• Irritability or frustration

• Trouble focusing

• Feeling physically “wound up”

  
  

Stress usually fades once the situation resolves. For example, you may feel relief after finishing a big project at work, or have your physical symptoms disappear after a conflict with a loved one is resolved.

What Is Anxiety?

Anxiety can feel similar to stress, but it’s more than just a response to external pressure. Anxiety often shows up even when there isn’t an immediate stressor. It lingers, and it can affect your ability to function day-to-day.

Signs of anxiety may include:

• Constant worry, even about small things

• Restlessness or difficulty relaxing

• Racing thoughts that won’t quiet down

• Panic attacks or intense fear

• Avoidance of certain situations

  
  

Unlike stress, anxiety doesn’t always have a clear “cause”—and it doesn’t automatically go away when the situation changes.

The Key Differences Between Stress and Anxiety

While stress and anxiety overlap, here’s a simple way to distinguish them:

• Stress is usually triggered by something external (work, school, relationships).

• Anxiety often comes from within—persistent, excessive worry that continues even when the external pressure is gone.

• Stress tends to resolve once the situation passes, while anxiety can persist long-term.

  
  

When Stress Turns Into Anxiety

Stress can sometimes lead to anxiety, especially if your body and mind don’t get a chance to recover. Chronic stress keeps your nervous system activated, making it harder to relax, sleep, or feel calm. Over time, this can develop into anxiety disorders if left untreated.

How Therapy or Counselling in Sarnia Can Help

Whether you’re dealing with everyday stress or ongoing anxiety, therapy can provide tools to manage your symptoms and improve your well-being. At Blue Coast Holistic Psychotherapy, we use approaches that address both the mind and body, including:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helping you reframe unhelpful thought patterns.

• Somatic & Mind-Body Approaches: Grounding, breathwork, and nervous system regulation.

• Holistic Support: Looking at sleep, nutrition, lifestyle, and past experiences.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Stress is part of life—but if it feels constant, overwhelming, or has shifted into anxiety, support is available. You don’t have to manage it alone.

If you’re looking for a therapist in Sarnia to help with stress or anxiety, Blue Coast Holistic Psychotherapy is here to walk alongside you. Together, we can help you find relief, resilience, and a stronger sense of balance.

Reach out today to book a consultation, or take a look at our anxiety therapy page.