Stress

Stress: the response of your body and mind to being challenged or threatened

Eustress: Positive Stress

Distress: Negative stress

Stressor: An event or situation that causes stress

Major Types of Stressors Major Life Change Catastrophe: An event that threatens lives and may destroy property –Natural disasters, violent crimes, terrorism, war Everyday Problem Environmental Problem: –Conditions in your immediate surroundings –Noise –Living in unsafe or crowded conditions –Weather conditions

How Stress Affects the Body

Body’s Response to Stress Stage 1 –Alarm Stage Fight or flight response Stage 2 –Resistance Body showing signs of stress even if you may not know it Stage 3 –Exhaustion Body can no longer keep up with demands

Fight or Flight Response: The bodies response to perceived threat or danger.

Warning signs of stress Behavioral Changes -Overeating or hardly eating at all -Sleep problems -Hurrying; talking fast -Withdrawing from relationships -Reckless behavior Physical Changes -Muscle tension -Headache -Upset stomach -Pounding heart -Shortness of breath -Increased sweating -Skin rash Emotional Changes -Irritable -Angry -Impatient -Nervous -Increased crying Changes in Thinking -Unable to concentrate -Negative thinking -Excessive worrying -Self-criticism -Critical of others

Stress and Individuals

When in stressful situation, answer these questions: –Is this situation a threat to my well being? –Do I have the necessary resources to meet the challenge?

How Each Personality Responds to Stress Optimist- tend to focus on the positive aspects of a situation Pessimist- tend to focus on the negative and expect the worst. Perfectionist- a person who accepts nothing less than excellence Procrastinator- a person that tends to put off work or stressful event

Build Resilience Take care of yourself Build a support system Take action Help somebody Confide in yourself Go easy on yourself Put things in perspective Find a hassle free zone Stick to your routine Resilience: The ability to “bounce back” from extreme or prolong stress Strategies to Build Resilience

Coping with Stress

REMEMBER: For the most part stress IS something you CAN control!!!

Techniques to Keep Stress Under Control Time Management Mental Rehearsal –Practicing an event without actually doing the event

Strategies to Reduce Tension Physical Activity –Being active allows for a healthy outlet for built-up energy and your focus is shifted Relaxation –Goal is to give mind and body a rest

Change Your Way of Thinking Avoid negative thinking –Negative messages make things seem impossible –Replace negative thoughts with positive thoughts Humor –Lets person deal with stressor quickly –Keep stressor in perspective