Everyone experiences stress. A busy week at work, family responsibilities, financial concerns, or an upcoming deadline can all leave us feeling overwhelmed from time to time. In many cases, those feelings improve once the stressful situation passes.
Anxiety is different.
While stress is typically a response to a specific challenge, anxiety can linger long after the event is over—or appear even when there is no obvious reason. It may interfere with work, relationships, sleep, or everyday activities.
Common signs of everyday stress
Stress may include:
Feeling overwhelmed during a busy period
Temporary irritability
Difficulty sleeping for a few days
Muscle tension or headaches
Feeling better once the situation improves
Stress is a normal part of life, and healthy habits such as exercise, adequate sleep, spending time with loved ones, or taking breaks can often help.
Signs anxiety may be something more
You may want to speak with a healthcare professional if you experience:
Constant or excessive worry that's difficult to control
Feeling "on edge" most days
Panic attacks
Trouble concentrating
Difficulty sleeping for weeks at a time
Avoiding places or activities because of fear or worry
Physical symptoms such as a racing heart, shortness of breath, or stomach problems without another medical explanation
If these symptoms persist or begin affecting your daily life, it may be time to seek professional support.
Help is available
The good news is that anxiety disorders are among the most treatable mental health conditions. Many people benefit from counseling, therapy, medication when appropriate, or a combination of treatments.
Thanks to telehealth services, many Kentuckians can now meet with behavioral health providers from the comfort and privacy of their own homes, making care more accessible than ever.
Community Health Spotlight – Sponsored by Fresh Start Health
Fresh Start Health provides behavioral and mental health services through secure telehealth appointments across Kentucky. Services include counseling, therapy, psychiatric care, and medication management when appropriate.
Most visits are covered by Kentucky Medicaid and many commercial insurance plans.
To learn more or schedule an appointment, call (606) 225-8200 or visit freshstarthealth.com.
Editor's Note: This article is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a medical emergency or a mental health crisis, seek immediate assistance by calling 911 or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.