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Types of Distress

Physical and mental distress are most commonly caused by reactions to traumatic events, chronic stressors and mental illnesses. These kinds of distress can have negative impacts on your mental and physical well-being. Recognizing and treating distress can reduce uncomfortable symptoms and improve your quality of life.

  1. Physical Distress

    • Physical distress can be a sign of anxiety and manifests itself in a variety of ways. A person under physical distress might sweat excessively, tremble, experience heart palpitations or chest pain and experience difficulty in breathing or swallowing. Other symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, dizziness, cold or hot flashes and feeling as though you are losing control. Physical distress caused by anxiety can be caused by phobias, reactions to traumatic events and mental or emotional distress.

    Mental and Emotional Distress

    • A person suffering from mental or emotional distress may show signs of uneasiness, depression, insomnia, feeling "out of control" or suicidal tendencies. These symptoms can occur as a result of abuse, trauma or chronic depression. Mental and emotional distress can also be caused by sleep deprivation and terminal illnesses. These types of distress can be reduced by keeping a daily routine, taking medications as prescribed and having a quiet place to relax.

    Effects of Distress on Health

    • Chronic stress can affect your thought processes, your feelings and your behavior. It can also have a negative impact on blood pressure levels, development of heart disease, obesity rates and diabetes. Chronic stress can cause frequent headaches, muscle tension, change in libido and irritability. It can also make you more vulnerable to destructive behaviors such as overeating, drug or alcohol abuse and use of tobacco.

    Identifying Mental or Physical Distress

    • If a person experiences four or more symptoms of anxiety or distress at once, and if these symptoms reach a peak within 10 minutes, this qualifies as a panic disorder. Those who are unsure should consult a therapist to determine whether any further action is needed to control symptoms of mental, emotional or physical distress. Medications and alternative therapies are available to reduce anxiety and other mental illnesses such as chronic depression.

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