Stress is a major contributor to a wide range of health problems, including heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and weakened immune function. When the body is under chronic stress, it releases hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which, over time, can lead to various health complications.
However, did you know that stress isn't always harmful? In certain situations, a particular form of stress can actually be beneficial. If you're unfamiliar with this phenomenon, here's what you need to know about "good stress," also known as eustress.
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What Is 'Good Stress'?![]()
Stress is described as a state of worry or tension caused by a challenging situation. It is a natural response that helps us address difficult events in our lives.
But this can sometimes be good.
Good stress, or eustress, is a positive response to stress that can benefit your health and overall well-being. For example, getting a promotion, starting a new job, getting married, buying a home, having a child, taking a vacation, or celebrating the holidays—all of these can contribute to good stress.
Have you also experienced the thrill of riding a roller coaster, competing in a game, or going on a first date? If so, these are also some examples of good stress.
Why You Need A Healthy Balance Of Stress In Life![]()
According to StatPearls publishing, not all stress is harmful. In fact, some stressors, particularly eustress, can lead to mental acuity and motivation and replenish our energy, enhance cardiovascular health, boost endurance, and sharpen cognitive function.
A study published in the journal PLOS One suggests that moderate stress levels are associated with increased productivity and positive mood, supporting the Yerkes-Dodson law, which is a psychological concept that describes the relationship between stress and performance.
Good Stress vs. Bad Stress: How To Tell the Difference
A lot of people believe that all types of stress are bad. But that is not the case.
Certain types, like eustress, are short-lived but positive and great for performance.
On the other hand, bad stress is often associated with distress, characterised by adverse effects on the body and mind. It can be both short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic).
Some examples to help you differentiate between good and bad stress are listed below:
Good stress: Meeting a major deadline for a project at work, participating in a competition or big game, a major life change that you want to happen, like moving or getting married
Bad stress: Financial issues, feeling unsafe in your environment, an unexpected end to a relationship, and the death of a loved one.
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How To Utilise Good Stress For Mental Health![]()
If you experience stress, you can harness it in a positive way and use it to your advantage. Here's how you can do it:
- Set achievable goals and channel your stress into motivation.
- Organise your day by focusing on prioritised activities.
- Exercise or indulge in physical activity, as it helps release stress while boosting energy.
- Practise techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help reduce anxiety.
- Turn challenges into opportunities.
- Lean on your support system of friends, family, or colleagues to share burdens and reduce feelings of isolation.
- Acknowledge your efforts by celebrating small wins, keeping your stress from becoming overwhelming.
- Maintain a balanced lifestyle.
Conclusion
Stress isn’t always bad; in fact, when it boosts productivity, enhances energy, sharpens focus, and improves cognitive abilities, it is known as "good stress." Also called eustress, this type of stress can be a powerful motivator, making you rise to challenges, meet deadlines, and perform at your peak. Eustress encourages growth by pushing you out of your comfort zone in a positive way. However, it's essential to distinguish between bad and beneficial stress and learn to harness the latter to support your success and well-being.