2. What is Stress?
Stress is the general physical and emotional state that accompanies the stress response. It is your bodies response to anything that stimulates you and raises your level of alertness.
Stress can result from both positive and negative situations.

3. Physiological Response of the Body
Hearing and vision become more acute.
The heart rate accelerates to pump more oxygen through the body.
The liver releases extra sugar into the bloodstream to provide an enery boost.
Perspiration increases to cool the skin.
Endorphoins are released to relieve pain in case of injury.

4. Stress Related Health Problems
Cardiovascular disease
Altered functioning of the immune system
Digestive problems
Headaches
Insomnia and fatigue
Repetitive strain injuries
Menstrual irregularities
Psychological problems such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks, eating disorders and post tramatic stress disorder (PTSD)

5. Common Sources of Stress
Major life changes
Daily hassles
College stressors
academic, interpersonal, time-related, financial
Job-related stressors
Interpersonal and social stressors
Environmental stressors

6. Managing Stress Social Support Communication
Sharing with others not only improves the quality of a persons life, but can add to the well-being of the body and mind.
Communication
The ability to communicate allows people to develop relationships that give them the social support they need.

7. Exercise Nutrition Sleep
People who exercise regularly have a milder reaction to physical stress responses before, during and after their expossure to a stressor.
Nutrition
A balanced diet will supply the body the energy it needs to cope with stressful situations. Caffeine should be avoided.
Sleep
Lack of sleep can both cause and result from stress. Without adequate sleep, our mental and physical processes deteriorate and we becom more susceptible to illness.

8. Time Management Set priorities Schedule tasks for peak efficiency
Set realistic goals and write them down
Budget enough time
Break up long-term goals into short-term goals
Consider doing your least-favorite tasks first
Sonsolidate taskes when possible
Identify quick tansitional tasks
Delegate responsibility
Say no when necessary
Give your self a break
Stop thinking and talking about it and just do it

9. Relaxation Techniques
Cognitive Techniques
Modify expectations
Monitor self-talk for negativity
Problem-solve
Live in the present
“Go with the flow”
Laugh
Relaxation Techniques
Progressive relaxation
Visualization
Deep breathing
Listening to music

10. References
Fahey, T.D., Insel, P.M. & Roth, W.T. (2003). Stress. In T. Dorwick & V. Mailinee (Eds.), Fit & Well: Core concepts and Labs in Physical Fitness and Wellness (pp ). Dubuque, IA: McGraw-Hill.