The term 'distressful feeling' can be summarized by the crossword solution 'ALARM, ' which is a five-letter word. An ALARM is an urgent call for action or attention, usually in response to danger or emergency. It is often used to alert people of potential danger or to signal the need for immediate action. Alarms can be auditory, visual, or tactile, and are often used in security systems, fire alarms, and other warning systems.