Stress Management 101: The Basics

What is Stress? Stressor(s) – EXTERNAL environmental circumstances Stress Response – Your INTERNAL emotional/behavioral/physiological reaction to environmental circumstances

Stress is an unavoidable part of life You cannot escape it completely, but you can learn ways of coping that can decrease it.

Stress is the way your mind and body react to a situation that is new, threatening, frightening or exciting

Stress prepares you to act (fight or flight) The way you handle stress determines whether it is helpful or harmful Burst of energy, adrenaline –Increased blood pressure, pulse, and respiration –Digestive problems –Agitation/Restlessness –Increased muscle tension Harnessing the energy

Harmful Stress Chronic, unrelieved stress –Headaches –Poor concentration –Changes in appetite –Fatigue –Insomnia –Other physical problems Anxiety, depression, or other emotional problems –Irritability –Withdrawal

The Stress of College Life Adjusting to increased freedom (responsibility) Workload is heavier Competition is tougher Adjusting to strangers (e.g., roommates) Lost in a crowd Loneliness Finding the right BALANCE (social and academic)

Two Basic Approaches to Help Relieve Stress Address life circumstances to eliminate stressors Address individual patterns of your emotional/behavioral and physical responses to stress –Relaxation Techniques –Counseling

Stress: Academic Preparation and Study Skills Time Management – take a seminar Choose quiet place to study Take breaks Recognize Strengths and Limitations ACCEPT Limitations Nutrition Exercise Sleep Relaxation – take a seminar

Stress: Academic Preparation and Study Skills Attend class Avoid cramming Seek help – professors, tutors, classmates, etc. Avoid excessive alcohol use Avoid drugs Plan, don’t panic (good time management) –Make a schedule –Include specific study time

Test Anxiety It’s NORMAL – in moderation Be prepared Use relaxation techniques Develop good studying and test-taking skills – attend a seminar Encourage yourself – positive self-talk Distinguish between RATIONAL and IRRATIONAL anxiety

Test-Taking Skills Deep breathing Read directions carefully Survey the test – what sections count more? Budget your time Essay questions: make a quick outline One question at a time Mark tough items – then move on and return later Maintain concentration and focus Reward yourself

Relaxation Techniques Deep Breathing Progressive Muscle Relaxation The “Relaxation Response” Visual Imagery Meditation, Yoga, Massage, etc.

Where to Turn For Help? The Rivier College Counseling Center provides support and education in stress reduction, time mgt. and test anxiety. Call us at ext to schedule a time to come by.