Distress refers to which concept?

• A. Negative Stress
• B. Positive Stress
• C. Neutral Stress
• D. Adaptive Stress

Answer: (A)

Distress is the harmful form of stress. It happens when a stressor is seen as a threat and your coping resources feel insufficient, leading to negative feelings, physical tension, and impaired performance or health, especially if it’s ongoing. In contrast, positive stress, or eustress, is the motivating, manageable kind that helps you meet challenges. Neutral stress isn’t a standard term here, and adaptive stress isn’t the label used for distress.