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Distress refers specifically to a type of stress that leads to negative outcomes, affecting an individual’s emotional and physical well-being. It is characterized by feelings of discomfort, anxiety, and a sense of being overwhelmed, which can result in adverse health impacts. Distress can arise from challenging situations that exceed a person's capacity to cope effectively, leading to a deterioration in performance, mental health, and overall quality of life.

In contrast to distress, other terms like eustress describe positive stress or challenges that can motivate and energize individuals, often resulting in personal growth or resilience. Thus, recognizing the distinction between distress and other forms of stress is crucial for understanding how stressors can impact an individual differently based on the nature of the stress response they provoke.