What is the stress-is-enhancing mindset developed by Dr. Alia Crum?

Dr. Alia Crum’s stress-is-enhancing mindset means seeing stress not only as harmful, but as a response that can potentially be used to support growth, performance, and well-being. It doesn’t mean the stressful situation itself is good; it means the challenge and adversity may lead to useful outcomes. 1

Crum’s three steps are:

1. Acknowledge and own the stress: Notice that you’re stressed.
2. Welcome it: Treat the stress as a cue to reconnect with what matters to you.
3. Use the stress response: Channel it toward pursuing the goal or value connected to that concern, rather than focusing only on getting rid of the stress. 2

The mindset may change motivation and emotional experience: instead of trying to eliminate stress or disengaging, a person may ask how to use it, and Crum says research found more positive affect—not necessarily less negative affect. Some studies also suggest a more moderate cortisol response and higher DHEA in response to stress. 3