distressed

Distressed is an adjective used to describe a state of physical or mental suffering, trouble, or hardship. It can refer to individuals or groups experiencing emotional pain, fear, or adverse circumstances, and it may indicate acute crises or ongoing stress. In everyday language, distress denotes negative stress that can impair functioning, and it is often contrasted with eustress, which refers to beneficial or motivating pressure. In safety contexts, a distress signal or distress call is a request for immediate help.

In finance and business, distressed describes entities facing financial trouble, such as distressed companies, debt, or assets. These situations may lead to restructuring, bankruptcy, or special credit arrangements. A distress sale refers to the rapid sale of an asset under unfavorable conditions to raise cash quickly.

In manufacturing and fashion, distressed describes items that are intentionally worn or aged to achieve a worn appearance, such as distressed denim or weathered furniture. In real estate and economic reporting, distressed properties or markets denote assets or regions under financial strain or elevated risk of default.

In humanitarian and governmental contexts, distressed areas are regions identified as needing aid or intervention. Emergency responders and aid organizations may prioritize these areas based on indicators of vulnerability, health needs, or disruption of essential services.