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Definition and context
Distress is negative stress that results from situations perceived as threatening, harmful, or overwhelming. It can lead to anxiety, discomfort, and a decline in well-being, potentially impacting physical and mental health adversely.
Author and reviewer
Editorial responsibility
Written by
Ephi Lu
Reviewed by
CNP Encyclopedia Editorial Board
References and further reading
- McEwen BS, Akil H. Revisiting the stress concept: Implications for affective disorders. Journal of Neuroscience. 2020 Jan 2;40(1):12–21. doi:10.1523/JNEUROSCI.0733-19.2019. PMID: 31896560. View source
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How to cite this entry
Ephi Lu. (2026). Distress. In Encyclopedia of Nutritional Psychology. The Center for Nutritional Psychology.
https://www.nutritional-psychology.org/encyclopedia/distress/
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