Stress

Stress is defined as the physiological and psychological response to internal or external "stressors" that perceive a threat to an individual’s equilibrium. The American Counseling Association (ACA) views it not as a diagnosis itself, but as a state of emotional or mental strain resulting from adverse or demanding circumstances that exceed a person’s perceived coping resources. Clinically, it is categorized along a spectrum: Eustress (positive, motivating stress) and Distress (negative, debilitating stress). Counselors focus on the "transactional model," emphasizing that the impact of stress is determined by the client’s appraisal of the situation and their ability to employ effective coping mechanisms to prevent long-term physical or mental health complications.