UPDATED 04/28/2025
When it comes to stress, there are different kinds—acute, eustress, and chronic stress. And we’ve all felt each at one point in time.
Acute stress is the day-to-day stress that we experience. It’s short and can be positive or problematic. Think of the nerves you feel when you’re going on a job interview or getting cut off on the highway.
Eustress is the fun and exciting stress. That rollercoaster ride that makes you scream and laugh with joy, the upcoming wedding of your best friend, or even starting that new job that you’ve been working your butt off for.
Chronic stress is the never ending, inescapable stress. It’s going to a job you hate, but have to go to because you need the income. Or living with a family member that is a raging alcoholic, but you feel the need to stay because you want to help them.
Experiencing each of these is normal. If you didn’t experience any stress at all, you might be considered a robot.
The worst is chronic stress and it’s the one you want to watch out for. Some say it’s a silent killer and in many cases, it’s true because chronic stress can be harmful to your health. It can affect you physically, emotionally, and even mentally. Physically you could start to see acne or weight gain. Emotionally you have frequent bouts of crying or inappropriate laughter. Mentally you might have an unexpected breakdown.
On the other hand, anxiety is different. It can be less noticeable and more manageable. Although, anxiety is no joke either. I talk about both on this podcast episode and I encourage you to listen.
And if you are experiencing chronic stress, take a pause. Go talk to your doctor and/or therapist and take action to curb it quickly before it gets out of hand.
