The Difference Between Feeling Anxious and an Anxiety Disorder

Feeling anxious is a normal part of life, but when anxiety becomes excessive and interferes with your daily activities, it may be a sign of an anxiety disorder. Here's how you can tell the difference between the normal kind of anxiety most people experience and an anxiety disorder.

Normal Anxiety

The word “normal” is tough when we are describing human experiences because we are all unique. Our personalities, histories and chemistries shape the ways we process and understand our lives, how we respond and relate with others. Nevertheless, when we talk about “normal” we mean a range of experiences and outcomes that are common for most people.

Everyone experiences anxiety from time to time, especially in stressful situations like before a big test, presentation, or important event. New environments and social settings are a common source of anxiety.

If you’ve seen Pixar’s Inside Out 2, you’ve seen anxiety portrayed as a chaotic and unwelcome addition. Yet, as the movie develops, Riley’s other emotions begin to see how anxiety helps to look out for Riley, anticipate problems and make plans. Feeling anxious is a sign that something different is on the horizon and it helps you prepare. 

This type of anxiety is temporary and usually goes away once the stressful situation has passed.

Anxiety Disorders

People with an anxiety disorder experience frequent, persistent, and intense anxiety that doesn't go away and can worsen over time. This type of anxiety is often disproportionate to the actual situation and can be triggered by seemingly harmless things. Sometimes, people with anxiety disorders experience intense symptoms, like a racing heartbeat, increased blood pressure, dizziness, or chest pains with no clear trigger or connection between their current circumstances and a trigger.

For people living with an anxiety disorder, the anxiety interferes with their daily life, making it difficult to concentrate, sleep, or even leave the house. Common symptoms include excessive worrying, restlessness, fatigue, muscle tension, difficulty concentrating, and irritability.

Key Differences

Duration: Normal anxiety is temporary, while an anxiety disorder is persistent and long-lasting.

Intensity: Normal anxiety is mild and manageable, while anxiety disorders involve severe, overwhelming anxiety.

Triggers: Normal anxiety has clear triggers (like an upcoming event), while anxiety disorders can be triggered by everyday situations or even nothing at all.

Impact: Normal anxiety doesn't significantly interfere with daily life, but anxiety disorders can make it difficult to work, study, or maintain relationships.

If your anxiety feels stressful or overwhelming, regardless of whether it is in the normal range or trending toward an anxiety disorder, therapists with The Counseling Centers at PCHAS can help. Our counselors can help you examine your anxiety, find strategies for coping, and make a plan for navigating anxiety when it arises in the future. Schedule An Appointment or call (833) 208-3201 for a Free Consultation.