"Severe distress" refers to a state of extreme sadness, worry, or discomfort that someone is going through. It describes a situation where a person is experiencing intense emotional or physical suffering. Full definition
Suddenly ending that comfort may result in severe distress in the child, as if you have taken away his or her security blanket. (checkpregnancy.com)
On the other hand, anxiety disorders are much more intense and cause severe distress. (thrivefamilyservices.com)
They should be able to provide all services with courtesy even in times of severe distress and be able to handle crises in a professional manner. (coverlettersandresume.com)