You tell yourself, “I’m just stressed.”

Work is busy, the kids need you, your phone never stops buzzing. But lately your heart races even when nothing is going wrong. You feel on edge for no clear reason. Sleep isn’t refreshing anymore.

So… is it “normal” stress, or could it be anxiety?

At Infinity Wellminds Services PLLC in Tacoma, Washington, I hear this question all the time. Understanding the difference between everyday stress and an anxiety disorder can be the first step toward feeling like yourself again.

Stress vs. Anxiety: What’s the Difference?

Stress is a natural reaction to a specific situation or pressurelike a deadline, a big exam, a family conflict, or a major life change. It usually:

Has a clear cause

Comes and goes with the situation

Eases when the stressor is resolved or you get a break

Anxiety, on the other hand, often:

Sticks around even when things seem okay

Shows up as a constant sense of worry or dread

Feels harder to control, even when you tell yourself to “calm down”

Everyone experiences stress. Anxiety becomes a concern when it starts affecting your daily life, relationships, work, or health.

5 Signs It May Be More Than “Just Stress”

If you notice these signs, your mind and body may be telling you it’s time to get extra support.

1. Your Worry Doesn’t Match the Situation

With typical stress, your level of worry usually matches the problem: a tough day, a stressful commute, or financial pressure.

With anxiety, your worry can feel:

Bigger than the situation needs

Hard to turn off, even when things are going well

Focused on “what if?” thoughts that spiral:

“What if I mess up?”
“What if something bad happens?”
“What if I can’t handle this?”

If you find yourself stuck in loops of worry that feel out of proportion and hard to interrupt, that’s a sign it may be more than everyday stress.