Stress is almost always cast in a negative light. But in the world of psychology, stress can also be positive.
That “good” type is eustress, the productive spark that sharpens our focus. The “bad” type is distress, the stress that leaves us drained.
Stress is almost always cast in a negative light. But in the world of psychology, stress can also be positive.
That “good” type is eustress, the productive spark that sharpens our focus. The “bad” type is distress, the stress that leaves us drained.
While they feel worlds apart, they have the same immediate impact on our biology.
“From an autonomic nervous system perspective, the initial physiological response is similar,” Hong Kong-based clinical psychologist Dr Julia Andre says.
Whether you are fuelled by the adrenaline of a new challenge or paralysed by dread, the internal machinery is the same: the body floods with cortisol, the heart rate climbs and the sympathetic nervous system kicks into high gear.

The important difference lies in what happens next.
3/5 starsShow More One of the most beguiling aspects of Gamer Girls is that it never acknowledges its characters’ gaming addiction for what it is….
I am not a coffee person. Never have been. I start my day with juice or occasionally tea. However, my girlfriend is a coffee addict….
Are you planning to host your Christmas gathering at home this year instead of going out to eat? If so, a number of top Hong…
3/5 stars For the past three decades, Pixar’s Toy Story franchise has used state-of-the-art animation to remind us of the simple pleasures of old-fashioned play…
It only takes a sudden dip in temperature to remind us there is nothing more miserable than sleeping in the cold – especially when your…