emo·tion·al distress n: a highly unpleasant emotional reaction (as anguish, humiliation, or fury) which results from another's conduct and for which damages may be sought – called also emotional harm, mental anguish, mental distress, mental disturbance, mental suffering; see also outrage, zone of danger
◇ Damages may be recoverable for emotional distress that is caused intentionally or negligently. Recovery for negligent infliction of emotional distress often requires that the plaintiff suffer a physical injury as well.
Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary of Law. Merriam-Webster. 1996.