Eustress facts for kids

Eustress is a special kind of stress that's actually good for you! It's the opposite of distress, which is the bad kind of stress that makes you feel worried or upset. Think of eustress as the exciting, positive feeling you get when you're challenged or doing something thrilling.

For example, you might feel eustress when you're riding a roller coaster, playing a tough video game, or singing in front of an audience. Even though your heart might beat faster or you might feel a bit nervous, these feelings are often followed by a sense of accomplishment or happiness. People often feel very good afterwards if they experience eustress.

Your body can have similar physical reactions for both eustress and distress. You might sweat, tremble a little, or feel your heart race. The big difference is how your mind interprets these feelings and the outcome.

What is Stress?

Stress is your body's natural way of reacting to any demand or threat. When you feel stressed, your body releases chemicals like adrenaline and cortisol. These chemicals prepare you to either "fight" or "flee" from a situation. This is called the "fight-or-flight" response.

• Distress is the negative kind of stress. It happens when you feel overwhelmed, worried, or unable to cope with a situation. Examples include being stuck in traffic, having too much homework, or dealing with an argument.
• Eustress is the positive kind of stress. It's exciting and motivating. It helps you focus and perform better. It makes you feel alive and ready for a challenge.

Why is Eustress Good for You?

Eustress can be very helpful in your daily life. It pushes you to grow and learn new things.

Boosts Performance

When you have a presentation at school or a big game, a little eustress can sharpen your focus. It helps you stay alert and perform at your best. This positive pressure can make you more productive.

Increases Motivation

Eustress can give you the energy to tackle new challenges. It's the feeling that makes you want to try harder. For example, setting a goal to learn a new skill or join a new club can create eustress. This motivates you to achieve that goal.

Promotes Growth

Facing new situations, even if they are a bit scary, helps you learn and adapt. Overcoming a challenge with eustress makes you feel stronger and more confident. It shows you what you are capable of doing.

Enhances Well-being

Experiencing eustress can lead to feelings of joy and satisfaction. After a thrilling experience or achieving a difficult task, you often feel a sense of accomplishment. This can improve your overall happiness and mental health.

Examples of Eustress in Daily Life

Eustress is all around us, often in activities we enjoy.

• Sports and Games: The excitement before a big game or the challenge of learning a new sport.
• Creative Activities: Performing in a play, singing on stage, or showing your artwork.
• Learning New Things: Starting a new school year, learning to ride a bike, or mastering a musical instrument.
• Adventures: Going on a roller coaster, trying a new extreme sport, or exploring a new place.
• Social Events: Meeting new people, going to a party, or giving a speech.

These situations can make you feel a little nervous, but they are also fun and rewarding.

Finding Healthy Eustress

It's important to find activities that bring you positive stress. These activities should challenge you without overwhelming you.

• Try new hobbies: Pick up a new sport, learn an instrument, or try coding.
• Set achievable goals: Work towards something that excites you, like running a short race or finishing a challenging book.
• Embrace challenges: See difficult tasks as opportunities to grow, not just problems.
• Step out of your comfort zone: Do something slightly scary but safe, like speaking up more in class or trying a new food.

Remember, eustress is about feeling excited and ready for a challenge, not stressed out and worried. It's a powerful tool for personal growth and happiness.

Images for kids

• 

  A robot thinking about positive challenges.