Feeling Overwhelmed? Here’s How to Tell if It’s Stress or Anxiety—and What to Do About It

Let’s be honest—these days, life feels heavy. Between rising prices at the grocery store, unsettling headlines, and the constant buzz of “what ifs” lurking in the back of our minds, it’s no wonder that so many of us feel like we’re just trying to keep our heads above water.

At Lifecare Wellness Counseling, we hear it daily: “I don’t know if I’m just stressed or if it’s something more.” If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and you’re not weak. You’re human.

You’re Not Alone—Here’s the Reality

• According to the American Psychological Association, 75% of adults report feeling overwhelmed by stress in the past month.

• A recent CDC survey found that nearly 1 in 3 adults reported symptoms of anxiety or depression in the last week.

• Even more telling, more than half of adults under 50 say stress has negatively impacted their mental health.

• Young adults and women are especially affected—they report significantly higher rates of stress and anxiety than other groups, according to multiple national studies.

  
  

These numbers don’t mean something is wrong with you. They mean the world is asking a lot, and you deserve support while you navigate it.

Stress vs. Anxiety: What’s the Difference?

• Stress is your body’s natural response to a challenge or demand. It’s the pressure you feel before a work deadline, during a family disagreement, or when you’re juggling too many responsibilities. Stress usually has a clear trigger and often fades once the situation is resolved.

• Anxiety, on the other hand, can feel similar—but it sticks around, even when there’s no immediate threat. It’s the racing thoughts at night when the house is quiet. It’s the “what ifs” that won’t quit, even when everything seems fine. Anxiety can show up physically, too—tight chest, nausea, fatigue, or restlessness.

  
  

Here’s a simple way to think of it:

• Stress is a response to something happening to you.

• Anxiety is more often something that’s happening within you.

  
  

Both can affect your mental and physical health, but anxiety tends to linger and grow, especially without support.

So… What Can You Do?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, here are a few steps to help you navigate the chaos:

1. Name It to Tame It

   Try to identify what you’re feeling. Are you stressed about a specific event or deadline? Or are you feeling anxious without a clear cause? Just naming what you’re experiencing can give you a little more control.

2. Check In With Your Body

   Are you grinding your teeth? Clenching your jaw? Struggling to sleep? Our bodies often speak before our brains catch on. Pay attention to those signs—they’re messages, not annoyances.

3. Take Mini Breaks (Yes, Even 2 Minutes Counts)

   Step outside. Take five deep breaths. Listen to a calming song. You don’t need a full spa day to give your mind a break. Little moments of calm add up.

4. Connect With Someone You Trust

   Anxiety thrives in isolation. Reach out to a friend, loved one, or therapist. Talking things out can provide perspective and help you feel less alone.

5. Know When to Get Help

   If your thoughts are constantly racing, you’re losing sleep, or everyday tasks feel like climbing a mountain, it might be time to speak with a counselor. That’s not a sign of weakness—it’s a sign that you’re ready for healing.

You Don’t Have to Carry The Weight Alone

If life right now isn't “business as usual,” pretending that it is can wear you down. At Lifecare Wellness Counseling, we help people like you work through stress, anxiety, and everything in between.

If you're not sure what you’re feeling or what to do about it, reach out. We’ll figure it out together.

Let’s start the conversation. Your mental health matters, and support is just a call or click away.