15th Medical Operations Squadron Hickam Mental Health Clinic -- Many people strive for a life free from stress; but stress is often a key to personal growth and development. It is a normal and unavoidable part of life. Stress comes into our lives in two forms: as distress or as eustress.
Distress is known as extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain, such as the feelings we get after the death of a family member, or while going through a divorce. Eustress is moderate or normal psychological stress, interpreted as being beneficial for the experiencer, such as working on a college degree, competing for awards and recognition, or having a new baby.
More often than not, distress and eustress are present in unequal portions, simultaneously. Stress is a normal reaction to difficult circumstances in life. But it’s when stressors are not effectively managed that life becomes imbalanced.
If you find yourself feeling imbalanced with the stress in your life, it might be time to look for outside help. Don’t let fear of the unknown prevent you from getting better. Eliminating stress is impossible and avoiding resolution can bring on more stress. Change within ourselves, no matter how beneficial the change may be, can be difficult to endure.
There are a wealth of resources available. You can seek assistance through the Hickam Mental Health Clinic (448-6377), Military Family Life Consultant (221-1341), Chaplains (449-1754), or Military OneSource 1-800-342-9647. Take comfort in knowing that seeking assistance can help you resolve many of the issues that might be holding you back from living your life to the fullest.