STRESS MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES
What is stress? Stress is the response our bodies experience on things that happen to us every day It is aimed at helping us to survive It has physical, mental and emotional effects on us It can create positive or negative feelings.
Positive influences of stress? As a positive influence, stress can compel us to action. It can result in a new lease on life and an enthusiastic creative approach to our work and environment, enabling us to enjoy life intensely.
Negative influences of stress? It can result in feelings of fatigue, distrust, resentment, bitterness, rejection, anger, and depression. This in turn can lead to health problems such as headaches, upset stomach, ulcers, skin rashes, insomnia, the inability to concentrate, poor memory, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, cancer and strokes
Stressors School Parents Friends Relationships Death of a loved one Divorce of parents Move to a new environment, Studying for final exams, Preparing for the future as an adult
Symptoms of stress? Irritability and mood swings Depression and tearfulness Anxiety Agitation and constant worrying Fighting with others Relationship problems Feeling overwhelmed and demotivated Detaching from others Poor concentration Memory problems
Symptoms of stress? Physical problems:- e.g. Overeating Irritable bowel syndrome Immune system problems Skin outbreaks Using alcohol/drugs to cope Ulcers, etc
Daily Stress Every day stressors and hassels can be a source of distress for you!
Stress Manage your stressors or the stress will find and manage you!
What does not work in dealing with stress! Avoiding the stressors… Worrying Blowing up Negative attitude Self destructive actions
Dr. Arnold Lazarus Dr. Clifford Lazarus Learn all you can about what causes stress in your life, and what works for you in dealing with it. Dr. Arnold Lazarus Dr. Clifford Lazarus
Stress Problem Solving Strategies Having a Plan! Obtaining Social Support! Using Effective Coping Skills A Positive and Optimistic Attitude! Learning from mistakes Exercise – a good way to de-stress Balance work and play
Stress Problem Solving Strategies Learn how to manage your time Don’t over commit Plan properly Don’t leave things to the last minute. Don’t use your energy trying to control people and things that you can’t Don’t store up emotions like anger and sadness – this adds to stress.
Plan Ahead Be prepared for the unexpected! Manage the morning, afternoon, Monday, Friday, etc... craziness
Stress Tip Slow deep breathing is probably the single best anti-stress medicine we have Dr. James Gordon
Stress Busting Tip Schedule daily R & R breaks in your life!
Remember Humor is life’s greatest lubricant Art Linkletter
Stress Proof Your Life! As best you can!