Stress Versus Distress

Stress is a normal part of life; too much of it can be harmful, but a total lack of stress is unhealthy, too. As a child, you may have felt stress over having to share a toy with another child. The first day of school may have caused you to feel nervous and sick to your stomach. As a teenager, changes to your body, the desire to fit in, and relationships with friends may be areas of concern. In every stage of adulthood, you will continue to face situations that can cause you stress. In this topic, you will learn about stress, what causes stress, how to avoid it, and how to deal with stress when it occurs.

Essential Questions

• What is stress, eustress, and distress?
• How does the body respond to stress?
• What is the relationship between stress and illness?
• What are some stress-management techniques?