Effat University LibGuides: Stress Management: So Stress Out

So Stress out Infographics

Stress vs Anxiety

Is it stress or anxiety?

What is Stress?

Stress is the physical or mental response to an external factor, such as heavy workloads or illness. A stressor can be a one-time event or occur repeatedly over time.

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is your body’s response to stress, which can happen even without an immediate threat. If it persists and disrupts your daily life, it may harm your health, leading to sleep issues and affecting your immune, digestive, cardiovascular, and reproductive systems. Furthermore, it increases the risk of developing mental health conditions like anxiety disorders or depression.

Stress vs. Anxiety

Stress	Both Stress and Anxiety	Anxiety
Generally is a response to an external cause, such as taking a big test or arguing with a friend. Goes away once the situation is resolved. Can be positive or negative. For example, it may inspire you to meet a deadline, or it may cause you to lose sleep.	Both stress and anxiety can affect your mind and body. You may experience symptoms such as: Excessive worry Uneasiness Tension Headaches or body pain High blood pressure Loss of sleep	Generally, it's internal, meaning it's your reaction to stress. Usually involves a persistent feeling of apprehension or dread that doesn't go away, and that interferes with how you live your life. It is constant, even if there is no immediate threat.