The causes of stress are usually a very individual thing but most commonly it is caused by a specific thought process that then generates a specific emotional response such as fear, anxiety or frustration.

Whereas in the case of anxiety the specific cause may not always be so obvious which in itself then tends to exacerbate the anxious state because the person suffering from the anxiety doesn't know what is causing it. In general terms we can look at stress as being a more generic type of mental and emotional state of lesser intensity where the person experiencing the stress often has a reasonably good idea of the cause. In the case of anxiety there is a build up of mental and emotional stress usually in relation to a specific, though often unknown, cause.

When someone experiences stress the causes can be many. Emotional trauma is very common especially so if the trauma is a low grade and ongoing. Obvious emotional states such as fear or grief, as well as bio chemical issues such as blood sugar regulation problems and adrenal depletion, can be likely causes of stress.

Irrespective of what the specific causes are in effectively treating stress and anxiety the cause does need to be found. This is not always easy but a good place to start is mapping out your symptoms and making note of the situations and circumstances that are associated with high levels of stress and the occurrence of your anxiety attacks.

Once the cause of the stress and anxiety has been uncovered finding someone who you can talk to openly about your specific issue is often advised. Whether that person be a professional therapist, a support group or simply someone who you can talk things out with, finding someone to talk with and work out some solutions that are appropriate, and most importantly that you will follow through with, is often the best form of self help in these situations.

In addition to a therapeutic approach to dealing with your anxiety and stress, make sure that your everyday lifestyle supports the therapy you are undertaking. Get moving. Regular exercise has been proven to help reduce levels of stress and increase wellbeing apart from the obvious fitness benefits. Proper sleep and rest are essential as are a healthy well balanced eating plan. Making sure these things are in place will make a huge difference to how you feel now and quite likely prevent the anxiety and stress from getting to levels that are difficult to manage in the future.

If you find that your levels of stress and anxiety get to the point where they are causing major physical symptoms such as chest pain, breathing constriction or palpitations along with thoughts of suicide please seek medical help immediately.