How do I know if I have anxiety or just stress?

Stress and anxiety share similar symptoms but differ in key ways. Stress is typically tied to a specific external cause like a deadline or conflict, and it usually fades once that situation resolves. Anxiety tends to persist even when there's no clear trigger, and the worry often feels excessive or hard to control relative to the actual situation. Signs that point more toward anxiety include constant worry that jumps between topics, physical symptoms like racing heart or tension without an obvious cause, avoiding situations out of fear, and difficulty sleeping even when things are calm. If your feelings linger for weeks, interfere with daily life, or feel disproportionate to circumstances, it's worth talking to a doctor or mental health professional for a proper assessment.