1. Kelly Trikenskas

2. What is Stress?!?!  Stress- a reaction of body and mind to everyday challenges and demands

3. How bad is it?  It depends on your PERCEPTION -  how you or your body reacts to something as you see it, this is different for different people at different times

4. STRESSORS- ANYthing that causes stress  Biological- illness, disabilities, injury  Environmental- poverty, pollution, crowding, noise, natural disaster  Cognitive/thinking- perception  Personal- mind/body reactions from health related behaviors, ex. Drug use, in-activity  Life Situations- death of a pet, divorce of a parent, peer relationships

5. Body’s Response to Stressors  3 stages  ALARM  RESISTANCE  FATIGUE

6. 1. Alarm Response  You become highly alert as your body prepares for “fight or flight”  Which system is this?

7. 2. Resistance  You actively engage in “fight or flight” making decisions, sweating, heart racing etc.

8. 3. Fatigue- a tired feeling  Physical-  Muscle tiredness  Psychological-  Your brain is tired- from constant worry, overwork, depression, boredom  Pathological-  Your body is tired, you get ill- anemia, flu, overweight, poor nutrition

9. Physical Effects  Psychosomatic Response- physical reaction from stress rather than illness or injury  Headaches  Heart Attack  High Blood pressure  Weakened Immune system

10. Mental/Emotional/ Social Effects  Difficulty concentrating  Mood swings  Risk of substance abuse and other high risk behaviors

11. Managing Stress  Engage in physical activity  Family/friend support  Find a hobby you enjoy  Avoid tobacco, drugs and alcohol

12. Learning How to Avoid Additional Stress  Say No  Walk Away  Avoid conflict  Plan ahead  Get enough rest (about 9 hours)  Physical activity  Nutritious food

13. How to avoid more STRESS (cont.)  Redirect your energy  Relax- laugh  Positive attitude  Seek support  Express yourself