What's the difference between anxiety and an anxiety disorder?

[Flea]

I know what anxiety is, I just don't know when having anxiety becomes a disorder. Can anyone explain it to me?

[Ironman]

Anxiety becomes a disorder when it affects your life - like in a negative way and stuff.

[L]

As said above, it can be seen as a disorder when it effects everyday living causing you distress. Everyone experiences anxiety at times.

[Total Eclipse]

What the other 2 people above me said seems about right.

Anxiety is hardwired into our brains. It is part of the body's fight-or-flight response, which prepares us to act quickly in the face of danger. It is a normal response to uncertainty, trouble, or feeling unprepared. However, if common everyday events bring on severe and persistent anxiety or panic that interferes with life, you may have an anxiety disorder.

[kc1895]

Is anxiety the same as stress? It sounds like being under constant general worry about nothing in particular. I still dont understand the difference between being really stressed out and having anxiety.

[Nelly]

I think if you let the stress get to you so much that it's all that you think about, that is a type of anxiety-related disorder. We all feel anxious and stress at points, but if it's always on our mind then it's a sign that something needs to change

[Ironman]

Is anxiety the same as stress? It sounds like being under constant general worry about nothing in particular. I still dont understand the difference between being really stressed out and having anxiety.

I think if you let the stress get to you so much that it's all that you think about, that is a type of anxiety-related disorder. We all feel anxious and stress at points, but if it's always on our mind then it's a sign that something needs to change

Stress and anxiety are actually different, but can fuel each other into the "vicious cycle". Stress is the pressure we face - we can also put stress on ourselves. We can be stressed out without anxiety, though.