Anxiety v stress

Stress and anxiety can seem like very similar issues. They’re certainly both negative and lead to tiredness, worry, distraction and irritability. But there are some fundamental differences between stress and anxiety. And when employers understand those differences, they are better equipped to deal with both issues and support their staff.

Stress is a natural reaction to external triggers. It’s a response designed to energise us, to help us take action. Stress usually goes away once the problem has been solved. Anxiety, however, is sustained. Anxiety has physical symptoms that stay with the sufferer, even after the underlying problems have been addressed. It’s not always a direct response to something external, although stress is a common trigger.