Stress
...and How to Manage it.
Stressors- Anything someone finds challenging or threatening.
External Stressors
- Financial situation
- Family (changes in family structure)
- Trauma
- Loss of independence
Internal Stressors:
- Overall Health
- Anticipation
- Attitudes
The Good and the Bad Side of Stress:
Benefits:
- Motivation (to get something done by a deadline, etc.)
- Going through a stressful situation can make it easier to deal with other stress later on.
Consequences:
- Burn-out
- Anxiety
- Depression
I'm I stressed?
Here are a few symptoms of stress:
- Low energy
- Headaches
- Upset stomach
- Becoming easily agitated, moody
- Avoiding others
- Feeling Overwhelmed
Prevention of Stress
- Primary: Activities that prevent the occurrence of stress.
- Secondary: Screening and detection (symptoms have already appeared), meeting the needs of the stress.
- Tertiary: Recovering to previous state of being before the stress.
Getting Defensive!
There are many defense mechanisms when it comes to stress:
- Repression- getting rid of any memories that are displeasing or painful.
- Regression- Returning to a less devolved state (E.x: sucking thumb, sleeping with a stuffed animal)
- Denial- Refusing that something is happening
- Compensation- Making up for something by excelling in another part of life.
Managing the Stress
There are many ways to managing stress. This includes:
- Relaxation
- Guided Imagery
- Exercise
- Meditation
- Yoga
The key is to try multiple techniques till you find one that fits you!
American Heart Association
Click this button for more information about managing stress!
HelpGuide.org
Click the link for more information about stress and how to cope/manage!