Anxiety is your body’s natural response to perceived danger, stress, or uncertainty. It often shows up as feelings of fear, nervousness, or dread, along with physical symptoms like a racing heart, tight chest, or upset stomach.(Source)

Everyone experiences anxiety at times—before a big move, a job interview, a medical test, or a major life change. In many situations, this kind of short-term anxiety is normal and even helpful, because it can keep you alert and motivated.

An anxiety disorder is different. With an anxiety disorder, worry and fear are more intense, last longer, and begin to interfere with daily life, relationships, work, or school.(Source) You may feel anxious most days, even when there is no clear reason, or your reactions may feel out of proportion to the situation.

If anxiety is making it hard to function, causing you to avoid people or places, or pushing you toward alcohol or drugs to cope, it may be time to seek professional support.