Distress is a bad type of stress that occurs when a person is unable to deal with external pressures or obligations. It occurs when a person’s stressors outweigh their ability to manage them, resulting in feelings of worry, helplessness, or frustration. This sort of stress can be caused by a variety of life events, including work-related responsibilities, personal relationships, or health worries, and it has a substantial impact on both mental and physical well-being.
When in distress, the body’s fight-or-flight reaction is activated, resulting in physical symptoms such as a fast heart rate, shallow breathing, and muscle tightness. Managing discomfort through coping mechanisms such as relaxation techniques, therapy, and lifestyle modifications is critical for regaining equilibrium and staying healthy.
