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.

[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.