Understanding the meaning of eustress and distress helps clarify how stress can affect our lives in both positive and negative ways. Eustress refers to positive stress that motivates, energizes, and encourages personal growth. It is usually short-term and arises from situations such as starting a new job, preparing for an exam, or taking on a meaningful challenge. Eustress improves focus, boosts confidence, and enhances performance because the individual feels capable of handling the situation.Distress, on the other hand, is negative stress that occurs when pressures feel overwhelming or unmanageable. It is associated with anxiety, fear, and emotional exhaustion. Prolonged distress can harm mental and physical health, leading to fatigue, irritability, and reduced productivity. By understanding the meaning of eustress and distress, individuals can learn to identify healthy challenges, manage negative stress effectively, and create a more balanced and resilient approach to everyday life.
