In distress is a term used to describe a person or situation that is in a state of difficulty, trouble, or suffering. The crossword solutions for this term are DAMSEL (6 letters), vexed (5 letters), and pained (6 letters). DAMSEL refers to a young woman who is in need of help or protection, while vexed means to be annoyed or irritated. Pained is an adjective used to describe someone who is feeling physical or emotional pain.