The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word CHAGRINED
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
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More clues leading to the result CHAGRINED
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The straight part
We know that "in a state of distress" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case in a state of distress = chagrined.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does CHAGRINED mean?
CHAGRINED verb- To bother or vex; to mortify.
- To be vexed or annoyed.
- Feeling chagrin (at something); vexed; fretful.