Does Stress Have Benefits?

Stress is a very common ailment we all have to cope with in the 21^st century. Stress is the generic term that is used to describe the physiological change in the body when arousing situations occur. Often when one thinks of stress they think of the negative things that lead them to feel tense, anxious, irritable and/or tired. Actually there are different types of stress. There is eustress and distress.

Eustress is a positive, favorable and highly desired form of stress. Eustress literally means "good stress" in Greek. The most common example of eustress is the thrill from a rollercoaster ride. The stress is acute and quick and there is no prolonged effect. Another example of eustress is meeting a challenge, such as completing a presentation for your place of employment. The pressure is ever present but it is also a healthy level of stress to get the mission accomplished. Some may even refer to eustress as fuel, like gasoline is to a car.

On the other hand, distress is the most common type of stress. Distress is known for having negative implications and adverse effects on the mind and body. Distress can be defined as great pain, anxiety, or sorrow. Distress as may include acute physical and/or mental suffering commonly referred to as "trouble."

For example, let's say you have just been diagnosed with a terminal illness. There are a lot of things that need to be addressed immediately. You need to make various doctors' appointments, receive treatments, obtain prescription medications, purchase vitamins or other supplements, and consider chemotherapy. Of course all these factors are added to your current life and work schedule. You have a spouse, children, a home to tend to and deadlines to meet. All of these things lead to distress. No longer is this "fuel" motivating you as a driving force but it is driving you to the point of affliction. This is the point where most become miserable and irritated.