Are there any pros or cons of stress?

Answer 1

There are different kinds of stress, and some situations where it might even be appropriate. Some pros of stress, if the situation requires it, would be short term enhancement of mental and motor function and increased adrenaline production. There are also many cons of stress which increase with prolonged stress. Examples include decreased ability to concentrate, poor judgment, nervousness, aches and pains, gastrointestinal complications, rapid heartbeat, change of appetite, exhaustion, and can even cause depression. Self imposed stress in a controlled environment, such as athletic training, can be a good thing, but prolonged stress should be avoided or at least mitigated.