Stressed out? Understanding G A S

Top Ten Sources of Stress for Kids Diana Bohmer Diana Bohmer Diana Bohmer Diana Bohmer In addition to minor aggravations like running late or having a bad hair day, kids (like the rest of us) have to cope with major life events. These events don't have to be negative to be stressful. Remember: the key component to stress is change. In addition to minor aggravations like running late or having a bad hair day, kids (like the rest of us) have to cope with major life events. These events don't have to be negative to be stressful. Remember: the key component to stress is change. Parent having problems. Parent having problems. Fight with a friend or a sibling. Fight with a friend or a sibling. Taking a test. Taking a test. Wondering if someone thinks you're attractive (teens especially). Wondering if someone thinks you're attractive (teens especially). Not having enough privacy. Not having enough privacy. Birth of a brother or sister. Birth of a brother or sister. Moving to a new school. Moving to a new school. Re/marriage of a parent. Re/marriage of a parent. Not having enough money. Not having enough money. A teacher who doesn't like you. A teacher who doesn't like you. Source: Mind/Body Medical Institute Source: Mind/Body Medical Institute

GENERAL ADAPTATION SYNDROME G A S Alarm Stage Physical reaction To stress Resistance Stage Returning to normal STRESSOR

Responding to stress STRESSOR Adrenaline (hormone) ENGERY RESPONSE Healthful Harmful Eustress Distress make plan feel confident exercise Beta- endorphins Well-being Panic Can’t sleep fatigue Heart & lungs work too hard Fewer white blood cells Become ill

G A S General Adaptation Syndome Alarm Stage –physical response Alarm Stage –physical response Resistance Stage – returning to normal Resistance Stage – returning to normal Exhaustion Stage- Exhaustion Stage- continued stress over time continued stress over time 1. The body is worn down 1. The body is worn down 2. Accidents are more likely to occur 2. Accidents are more likely to occur 3. Diseases might develop 3. Diseases might develop

The End Stay in balance

Possible long term effects Immediate responseLong-term effect 1. Heart beats fasterrise is blood pressure 2. Faster breathingTiredness 3. Digestion slowsSores in stomach 4. Blood flow to musclesCold hands and feet 5. Blood thickens faster blood clots or stroke 6. Glucose in bloodDrop in blood sugar 7. Muscles contactTiredness

Stress reducing activities Use time management skills Get enough sleep Keep a sense of humor Help others Stay physically active – exercise Write in a journal Talk with trusted adults Spend time with friends Care for pets