What is the main difference between distress and eustress?
• Eustress happens to someone else; distress happens to you.
• Eustress happens in early childhood; distress happens later in life.
• Eustress creates positive effects; distress creates negative effects.
• Eustress comes from small personal conflict; distress comes from large catastrophes.
The correct answer is: Eustress creates positive effects; distress creates negative effects.
To understand the main difference between distress and eustress, we need to understand what each term means:
1. Distress: Distress refers to the negative or harmful stress that we experience. It is typically associated with unpleasant situations, events, or circumstances that overwhelm our ability to cope. Distress can be caused by major life changes, traumas, conflicts, or crisis situations. It often leads to feelings of anxiety, fear, and an overall negative impact on our physical and mental well-being.
2. Eustress: Eustress is a type of stress that is perceived as positive or beneficial. It is typically associated with situations that are challenging, but still within our ability to cope and adapt. Eustress can arise from events such as starting a new job, taking on a new project, or participating in a competitive sport. It can motivate, energize, and enhance our performance. Eustress is often accompanied by feelings of excitement, enthusiasm, and accomplishment.
Given this information, the correct answer is that eustress creates positive effects, while distress creates negative effects. It is important to note that both eustress and distress are normal and natural responses to different situations, but their effects on our well-being and overall experience differ.