All About Stress

This post on Stress is written by Marie Wiliszewski, MA, LAC

When you think of the word stress, what is the first thought that pops into your mind? Most likely, it is “something that I feel when I am in intense situations” or that pressure is a negative feeling we experience. Most of the time, when stress is being discussed, it is about the negative side. This may feel like the “What if…” thoughts or staying stuck on a negative thought. Tension tends to bring forward some uncomfortable or negative feelings, emotions, and thoughts.  

Imagine finding out that stress is not only a negative feeling. Wild concept, but it is true. Stress can also be a positive force in our daily lives that helps us with new tasks or activities. This positive pressure is also known as eustress. Eustress can be present in our day-to-day lives, but we are unaware of it as it does not cause increased discomfort or produce the uneasiness that negative stress provides. Eustress can also feel like the excitement and uncertainty of going on a new rollercoaster for the first time. Eustress may feel anticipation or eagerness. Ultimately, positive and negative tension can be present in our daily lives.  

Now that September is here, a lot of changes are happening. Leaves are changing color and falling, the holiday season is just around the corner, the new school year is starting, and so are the after-school activities. This time of year brings negative stress and eustress to the table, but we may be more inclined to notice the negative stress. Going through the changes that September brings, it may be helpful to try to identify both types of anxiety in life. One way that can be helpful for this is using an “and” when talking about stress. This way you can acknowledge both the positive and negative without trying to discredit one. For example, “I am excited to start this new school year, and I am nervous that I will get lost changing classes.” 

As the seasons change, one can appreciate the beauty that fall brings and may dread that this means the colder weather of winter is drawing near. Just as we can use the “and” thought when talking about the weather/seasons and feel confident about it, we can also translate that same idea to our daily lives while still having that same confidence. Using the “and” thoughts when talking about pressure can help to empower you in your day-to-day life and not just notice the negative stress.  

In Summary ...

Stress is often perceived negatively but can also be positive. Negative stress, or distress, typically brings discomfort, while positive stress, known as eustress, can motivate and excite us.

As September arrives with seasonal changes, school, and activities, both types of stress are present.

Using “and” statements to acknowledge both positive and negative anxiety will help manage and balance emotions. This approach can enhance awareness of stress without focusing solely on the negative aspects.

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