STRESS MANAGEMENT

What is Stress?
Stress is a physical and psychological reaction to a situation that places pressure on an individual.

Is All Stress Bad?

Moderate levels of stress may actually improve performance and efficiency Too little stress may result in boredom Too much stress may cause an unproductive anxiety level

Factors That Cause Stress

School Work Family Relationships Legal Finances Health/illness Environment Living Situation

Negative Effects Of Stress

1. Physical o Weight gain/loss o Unexpected hair loss o Heart palpitations o High blood pressure 2. Emotional o Mood swings o Anxiety o Can lead to depression o Can also lead to unhealthy coping strategies (i.e. alcohol, drugs, etc)

Stress Vulnerability
EXAMPLES o Smoking o Eating o Staying out late often o Sitting infront of the computer o Gambling

What Can We Do?

FUN & LEISURE ACTIVITY 1. Reduces stress 2. Prevents stress 3. Helps to have a healthy life.

Habits Are Not The Best Solutions To Tension

o If

sweets, alcohol and tobacco really solved problems, we wouldnt have obesity, alcoholism and cancer. an eating binge is often a temper tantrum in disguise.

Managing Stress
Stress Relief Strategies: Body relaxation excercises o breathing techniques o guided imagery Physical exercise o yoga o work out routine Meditation Counseling o talk therapy o life coaching

Stress- Minimizing It
Admit that there is no such thing as perfection; be satisfied to strive for improvement. Whatever your goals ,consider whether theyre worth fighting for;dont waste your efforts on unrealizable goals

Stress- Minimizing It
Try to keep your mind on the pleasant aspects of life. Nothing paralyzes a persons efficiency more than frustration;nothing helps it more than success.After a defeat, the thought of being a failure is best combated by taking stock of your past achievements.

Modify Your Attitudes

Learn to recognize your own stress such as clammy hands, headaches,dry mouth etc. Dont self medicate away your symptoms.Drugs can mask stress symptoms and many are habit forming.The ability to handle stress comes from within yourself, not from the outside.

Modify Your Attitudes

Give in occasionally instead of fighting and insisting youre always right. We are responsible for our own selfesteem. We do not have to accept others labels or grow by cutting down someone

Modify Your Attitudes

Look for the right things in the right places-power and prestige-love and nurturance at home. Learn to accept what you cannot change. Spinning your wheels gets you nowhere.

Dont Do It Alone
Human beings are social beingsTalk it out with a Friend, family member. Get professional help. Dont suffer needlessly.

Take Care Of Yourself

Lack of sleep will decrease your ability to handle stress. Poor dietary habits do like wise and contribute to the cause of disease which then increases stress.

Benefits Of Stress Management

Physical health gets better o more energy and stamina Emotions stabilized o positive attitude o hopeful/happier Ability to focus improved o able to learn and achieve