Is there a Difference Between Stress & Anxiety?
Believe it or not there is a difference between stress and anxiety. Stress is created by the pressures we feel in our lives which can place undue strains on our minds and body. Stress has many different negative effects and anxiety is one of them. Anxiety can cause fear, worry, and apprehension.
Stress is caused by an existing stress-causing factor or stressor. Anxiety is stress that continues and lingers after the stressor is gone. Stress can come from multiple situations or thoughts that make you feel nervous, angry, or irritated. What one person finds stressful may not be stressful to another.
Anxiety is a feeling of fear or apprehension and can often be accompanied by feelings of impending doom. The source of the anxiety is not always known or recognized which can add to the discomfort you already feel. Physical symptoms of anxiety can include chest pains, dizziness, shortness of breath, and muscle tension.
Everyone experiences anxiety at some point in their lives. Anxiety can result from an interview, exam, or an illness. It is completely normal to feel anxiety when you have to face something that is difficult or dangerous. Unfortunately anxiety can become excessive and interfere with your daily life. Anxiety becomes a concern when it is severe, prolonged, or it occurs in the absence of a stressful event, and interferes with your everyday activities.
Common indicators of anxiety being excessive includes:
- Dry mouth
- Heart racing
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Insomnia
- Inability to concentrate
- Fear of “going crazy”
- Feeling severe tension
If you recognize and experience the above factors then anxiety may be an issue for you. The good news is that anxiety can be completely overcome. Scientific evidence and research has proven that a specific type of therapy called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can eliminate anxiety. People who seek treatment for anxiety in counseling through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy report feeling better any where between 6 to 10 counseling sessions. In counseling you will learn specific techniques and tools to stop anxiety. Anxiety does not need to stop you from living your life. Take control and get the tools you need to overcome it.
ABOUT ESSENCE OF HEALING COUNSELING:
Roberta Alves is a therapist and counselor at the Essence of Healing Counseling in downtown Ft. Lauderdale. She is a Certified Anxiety Specialist and uses a scientific and evidence based type of therapy called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Research has shown that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is proven to be extremely effective in treating anxiety. Roberta is truly passionate about the work she does and loves serving her clients in Ft. Lauderdale and the surrounding South Florida areas. If you want to learn the proven techniques to overcome your anxiety, schedule an appointment today.
