Criminal Investigator Training Program (CITP) Exam 1 Practice 2026 - Free CITP Practice Questions and Study Guide

Distress is the negative form of stress, a harmful response that occurs when demands exceed your coping resources and it can impair judgment, mood, and health. This distinguishes it from eustress, the positive, motivating stress that can improve focus and performance. Neutral or no stress don’t capture the adverse impact that distress represents. For investigators, recognizing distress and applying coping strategies—such as problem-solving, time management, seeking support, and prioritizing self-care—helps maintain decision-making and performance.