Good Stress vs. Bad Stress: Finding the Sweet Spot

When we hear the word “stress,” we often think of overwhelm, burnout, or pressure we can’t control. But the truth is a little more nuanced: not all stress is bad.

A little bit of stress can actually be good for us. Short-term, manageable stress activates our body’s “get-up-and-go” system, helping us focus, stay alert, and perform at our best. Just as muscles grow stronger with training, small bursts of pressure can help us build emotional resilience and confidence. Whether it’s preparing for an important presentation or finishing that last kilometre of a run, healthy stress can push us to grow.

However, when stress becomes constant, it stops helping and starts harming. Chronic stress keeps our nervous system in overdrive, leaving no time for rest and recovery. This ongoing tension can raise cortisol levels, affect sleep, and lead to exhaustion, anxiety, or burnout. Over time, it chips away at both our physical and mental health.

National Stress Awareness Day is a reminder to check in with ourselves and find balance—to support not just our “go” system, but also our “slow” one. The parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for calm and recovery, needs time to do its job. Rest isn’t a luxury—it’s essential for long-term wellbeing.

Here are a few simple ways to manage stress and restore balance in a busy lifestyle:

• Pause with purpose – Take a few mindful minutes during the day to breathe deeply or stretch.

• Prioritise sleep – Consistent, good-quality sleep helps your brain and body recharge.

• Connect with others – Talking things through with friends or family can buffer stress.

• Move your body – Exercise releases tension and boosts your mood.

• Set boundaries – Protect your time and energy; it’s okay to say no.

• Practice mindfulness – Even five minutes of presence can quiet a busy mind.

Stress is a natural part of life—but with awareness and self-compassion, it doesn’t have to control it. By recognising our limits and giving ourselves time to rest, we can transform stress from a source of strain into a source of strength.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or finding it difficult to cope, you don’t have to manage it alone. Reach out to Centric Mental Health to speak with one of our therapists and explore ways to build balance and resilience.

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