Eustress vs Distress: Understanding Stress

Grade 9 Health Education Mastering Stress Management - Lesson 1 of 5 45 minutes

What Is Stress to You?

Think about your daily life What situations make you feel stressed? Write one word or phrase that describes stress

Two Types of Stress

Eustress: Positive stress that motivates and energizes Distress: Negative stress that causes anxiety and overwhelm Both create physical responses in our bodies The key difference is how we perceive and handle the situation

Eustress vs Distress: Key Differences

{"left":"Motivates and energizes you\nImproves focus and performance\nFeels exciting or challenging\nShort-term and manageable\nExamples: sports competition, job interview, first date","right":"Causes anxiety and worry\nDecreases performance\nFeels overwhelming or threatening\nCan be chronic and unmanageable\nExamples: too much homework, family conflict, bullying"}

Stress Scenario Sorting

Work in groups of 4-5 students Read each scenario card carefully Discuss and decide: Is this eustress or distress? Be ready to explain your reasoning Remember: context and individual differences matter!

How Stress Affects Your Body and Mind

Personal Stress Reflection

List 3-5 stressors you experience regularly Categorize each as eustress or distress Reflect: How does each stressor affect your mood and behavior? Consider: What makes some stress feel positive vs negative? This is private - you choose what to share

Remember This

'Understanding your stress is the first step to managing it effectively.' Next lessons will focus on: • Recognizing early stress warning signs • Healthy coping strategies • Building resilience and stress management skills