1. Managing Stress
Ch 3
Section 1

2. Warm-Up Activity
Myth: People should try to avoid all situations that can lead to stress.
Fact: Stress is a normal part of life that you cannot avoid. Sometimes stress can have a positive outcome.
Writing: You are invited to a friend’s birthday party. What about this situation could cause you stress?

3. Objectives and Vocabulary
Describe what causes a person to experience stress.
Identify four general types of stressors
Vocabulary:
Stress
Eustress
Distress
Stressor
catastrophe

4. What is Stress?
Stress: the response of your body and mind to being challenged or threatened.
Stress is both positive and negative.
Positive stress is sometimes called eustress.
Negative stress is sometimes called distress.
Moderate levels of stress actually improve your ability to concentrate and perform at your best.

5. Many Causes of Stress
Stressor: An event or situation that causes stress.
Four general types of stressors.
Major life changes
Catastrophes
Everyday problems
Environmental problems

6. Major Life Changes
How did you feel on your very first day of high school?
Major life changes are stressful because it takes energy to adjust to a new situation.
May also threaten you sense of security or your self-esteem.
Important to realize that change, both positive and negative , is in itself stressful.
What are 3 major life changes you’ve experienced during the past five years?

7. Catastrophes
Catastrophe: an event that threatens lives and may destroy property.
Natural disasters
Hurricanes
floods
tornados
A person who experiences a catastrophe may deal with the psychological effects for years after the event.
Reading about a catastrophe or seeing images on television can also cause stress.

8. Everyday Problems
Most common stressors are minor, but frequent, everyday events. (hassles)
Misplacing keys
Missing the bus
Having too many homework assignments
Conflict-disagreements with family members, friends or others
What everyday problems did you experience today that were stressful for you?

9. Environmental Problems
Conditions in your immediate surroundings affect your level of stress each day.
Major stressor that occurs all around you but is often overlooked is noise.
Living in unsafe or crowded conditions also tends to increase feelings of stress.
Living where the air quality is poor or where litter collects on sidewalks.
Weather conditions also contribute to stress.