What is a potential outcome of prolonged distress?

Prolonged distress can have serious implications for both mental and physical health. When an individual is subjected to ongoing stress without adequate coping mechanisms or relief, the body's normal functioning can become impaired. This ongoing strain can lead to various health issues, including weakened immune responses, heightened cardiovascular risks, and even mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression.

Deterioration of health may manifest in numerous ways, such as chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances, and an overall decrease in life satisfaction, which also can contribute to further physical ailments. This association between prolonged distress and health decline underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing stressors early on to mitigate long-term consequences. In contrast, the other potential outcomes associated with the remaining options are generally seen as immediate or positive responses to stress rather than the result of ongoing distress.