Not All Stress is Bad—Meet Eustress!

When we talk about stress, we often frame it in a negative light—sometimes as a cause of physical and mental harm. But there’s a kind of stress that can actually help you grow and perform better. And it’s called eustress!

Definition

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), eustress (pronounced you-stress) is “a positive form of stress that can have a beneficial effect on health, motivation, performance, and emotional well-being.” It’s the kind of pressure that excites you, motivates you, and pushes you to rise to a challenge—without making you feel overwhelmed. 

Real-Life Experience

Think about the nerves you’ve felt in a job interview or your initial shock when you’re handed a new project. Are you nervous on your first date? Are you trying something new? Chances are that the “butterflies in your stomach” may be eustress in action.

According to researchers, eustress can increase productivity and even build resilience within oneself. Furthermore, it encourages you to improve and reach your goals. It even enables you to step out of your comfort zone!

READ: Mental Health Check: Facing our invisible enemy

What About Distress?

On the other hand, distress, which we prefaced earlier, causes anxiety, worry, or even helplessness. It drains your energy and, if not managed, can lead to further physical and mental health issues.

Think of it this way: if eustress is like a gentle push forward, distress feels like you’re being pulled down. The key is in how your mind and body respond: are you energized? Or are you overwhelmed?

Be Aware, Be Balanced

However, too much eustress can become a problem. If you overexert yourself in what you do—even with good intentions—you can feel burnt out, anxious, and/or exhausted.

As previously mentioned, it’s important to be aware of what stress you’re feeling. Ask yourself if this pressure is helping you grow or if it’s draining you. When you learn to differentiate between good and harmful stress, you can harness the former to your advantage.

Eustress proves that stress isn’t always the enemy. Sometimes, it signals that you care and want to do well. Just remember to prioritize your health and overall well-being.