If you’re wondering whether you might be dealing with anxiety, it’s important to pay attention to both your thoughts and your body. Anxiety can show up in many different ways, but there are a few common signs that may indicate it’s time to seek therapy.
What is the difference between Stress and Anxiety?
Stress and anxiety do look very similar. The difference is, anxiety is a response to stress. You might feel restless, tense, get headaches, have high blood pressure, and struggle to sleep.
Do these symptoms sound familiar? They probably do, and that’s because most every person will experience this in their lifetime. That’s because stress is caused by external causes.
Whether it be deadlines at work, the kids having games at the same time, or a mid-term you have to study for, these are all issues that will eventually resolve themselves. They are stressful while they’re happening, and then it goes away. After you’re done, you get a chance to breathe.
On the other hand, sometimes you don’t quite feel like you ever get a chance to breathe, and the stress is prolonged. There are ways to help ease this.
- Exercising regularly, whether going on a walk, taking a bike ride, or maybe going for a swim.
- Making sure you get the necessary sleep is also crucial to allowing your body and mind to catch those breaths after a long week, as well as using breathing exercises. These can be done at any time, and maybe even before bed if the problem is falling asleep in the first place.
- Turn off the electronics and do some simple breathing exercises to help you calm down before falling asleep.
Now, with this in mind, as we said before, stress and anxiety look very similar. So what’s the difference? If stress is from the outside, then anxiety is the internal response to stress. Unlike stress, anxiety stays behind even after the issue has been resolved. Anxiety can show up in different ways, like general anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, social anxiety, OCD, and PTSD.
Great! We now know what stress and anxiety are and how they are different. But how do you pinpoint which is which at the moment?
Emotional Signs of Anxiety
One of the most noticeable aspects of anxiety is the emotional impact it can have. If you’re experiencing excessive and ongoing worry or fear, it could be more than just typical stress. You might find yourself constantly anticipating the worst, even when there’s little reason to worry. Restlessness, irritability, and feeling on edge are common emotional symptoms. If the amount of worry you’re experiencing feels out of proportion to the situations you’re facing, it may be time to consider therapy in Fort Collins to manage these symptoms.
Physical Symptoms of Anxiety
Anxiety often manifests physically, making it easier to recognize. Some of the most common physical signs include an increased heart rate, unusual sweating, trembling, and shortness of breath. Many people with anxiety also report frequent headaches, stomachaches, muscle tension, and difficulty sleeping. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, especially panic attacks that come with sudden and intense fear, seeking therapy can help alleviate the physical toll anxiety is taking on your body. Professional assessments and targeted treatment options can provide the support needed to manage these symptoms.
Behavioral Changes Due to Anxiety
Anxiety can significantly impact your behavior, often leading to avoidance of situations that trigger fear or discomfort. For example, you might begin avoiding social gatherings or events, which can interfere with your work, studies, or relationships. When avoidance behaviors start affecting your everyday life, it’s a clear sign that anxiety may be at play. Evolve Counseling in Fort Collins can provide effective therapy strategies for coping with these challenges, helping you regain control by addressing both the emotional and behavioral aspects of anxiety.
Taking the Next Step Toward Relief
If emotional, physical, or behavioral symptoms of anxiety have been affecting your life for six months or more, or if they’re significantly interfering with your daily activities, it may be time to seek professional help. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a proven treatment that can help manage and relieve anxiety symptoms. With the guidance from specialists like Lindsey Phillips, LPC, and Ben Smith, LPC, you can take the first steps toward feeling better and leading a more balanced life.
Evolve Counseling Services is a trusted therapy practice specializing in treating anxiety with CBT. Whether you’re a student or adult, in-person or online, we’re here to support you. Reach out today to begin your journey toward lasting relief.
