One
definition of stress is when the state exists where there is a discrepancy
between the perceived demands on an organism, and its perceived ability to cope.
Individuals vary enormously in their vulnerability to stressful situations. When
dealing with the physical aspects of stress, the term psychosomatic is used.
This describes ailments such as allergies, ulcers, digestive issues, eczema,
some forms of asthma and blood pressure. There are 3 types of stress –
mechanical, chemical and mental. Stress can be both beneficial and a destroyer.
It is an adaptive response and causes a reaction of “fight” or “flight”.
Distress
on the other hand is pain or suffering affecting the body, mind or bodily part.
It implies an external and usually temporary state of great physical or mental
strain. Examples easiest to recognise would be famine, the result of any
child’s suffering and situations describing agony or misery.
organism, and its perceived ability to cope.
Individuals vary enormously in their vulnerability to stressful situations. When
dealing with the physical aspects of stress, the term psychosomatic is used.
This describes ailments such as allergies, ulcers, digestive issues, eczema,
some forms of asthma and blood pressure. There are 3 types of stress –
mechanical, chemical and mental. Stress can be both beneficial and a destroyer.
It is an adaptive response and causes a reaction of “fight” or “flight”.