STRESS MANAGEMENT

*WHAT IS STRESS? Stress is a condition or feeling experienced when a person perceives that demands exceed the personal and social resources the individual is able to mobilize.” (Richard S. Lazarus) People feel great stress when they think they can’t handle the demands put upon them. People feel little stress when they have the time, experience, and resources to manage a situation. Source: http://www.mindtools.com/stress/UnderstandStress/StressDefinition.htm

*WHAT IS STRESS? Most of our stress in life is subtle and occurs without obvious threat to survival. Most comes from work overload, conflicting priorities, conflict with family or co-workers, financial difficulties, unpleasant environments, etc. Stress can be helpful – helps you to accomplish goals set. Stress can be harmful - continuation of stress for prolonged periods of time, can lead to depression, anxiety, and fatigue. Source: http://www.mindtools.com/stress/UnderstandStress/StressDefinition.htm

Causes of Stress *External Causes Major life changes Work Relationship difficulties Financial problems Being too busy/ time issues Children and family School Health issues *Source: http://helpguide.org/mental/stress_signs.htm

Causes of Stress *Internal Causes Inability to accept uncertainty Anxiety Pessimism Negative self-talk Unrealistic expectations Perfectionism Lack of self confidence Depression *Source: http://helpguide.org/mental/stress_signs.htm

The Effects of stress Chronic stress can lead to physical and mental health problems: High blood pressure Suppressed immune system Sleep problems Depression Unintentional weight gain or loss Digestive problems Irritability A sense of helplessness Anger Addictions

*Factors Influencing stress tolerance level Support system of friends and family Sense of control Attitude and outlook Ability to deal with emotions Knowledge and preparation *Source: http://helpguide.org/mental/stress_signs.htm

*Dealing with Stress and its symptoms Learn how to manage stress Change the stressful situation when you can. Change your reaction when you can’t. Remove yourself from the situation if necessary Learn to balance the demands in your life Don’t let responsibilities keep you from your family and friends. Prepare for stressful events to lessen anxiety. Use your time wisely by prioritizing your activities. *Source: http://helpguide.org/mental/stress_signs.htm

*Dealing with Stress and its symptoms Learn how to relax Stress cannot be eliminated from your life, but you can learn to control its effects on your life. Focusing on something positive when you are feeling stressed will often change your outlook. Using relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga can help you deal with stress. Invest in your emotional health If you have good emotional health you are able to handle stressful situations and are more adaptable when faced with life’s problems. If needed, seek professional help in dealing with symptoms of stress. APSU Counseling Center: www.apsu.edu/counseling/ *Source: http://helpguide.org/mental/stress_signs.htm

“Give your stress wings and let it fly away.” CLOSING THOUGHT “Give your stress wings and let it fly away.”  ~Carin Hartness