Stress and stressors

Explanation on Stress and Stressors

1. STRESS AND STRESSORS- How Stressed are you?

2. Obstacles One that opposes, stands in the way of, or holds up progress

3. Two Forms: Internal obstacles- under your control and are actionable if you are willing. External obstacle- outside your control but correct recognition and assessment make it possible to deal with them.

4. “I’m Ruled” attitude- you believe that you have no choice but to react to and become distracted by the obstacles. “I Rule” attitude- you can choose to overcome and not be distracted by obstacles

5. Stress A feeling of strain and pressure Brings out physical, emotional, cognitive or behavioral symptoms Can be external or internal

6. Types of Stress Eustress (good stress)- motivates you to move into action to get things accomplished; happens in fun and exciting situations. Distress (bad stress)- most common form of stress; something we all go through in our daily lives and often we don’t even notice it happening.

7. STRESSOR Any event, experience, or environmental stimulus that causes stress in an individual.

8. Types of Stressors Crises/catastrophe- natural disaster, war Major life events- marriage, college, death, birth Daily hassles/micro-stressors- annoyances, conflicts Ambient stressors- pollution, noise, crowding, and traffic

9. Stress Management refers to: Techniques and psychotherapies aimed at controlling a person’s level of stress. Stress Management Techniques: 1. Avoid unnecessary stress 2. Alter the situation 3. Adapt the stressor 4. Accept the things you can’t change 5. Make time for fun and relaxation 6. Adopt a healthy lifestyle

10. DAY 7: Personal Stressors and Relievers and Stress Relief Reminders

11. Top 10 Stress Relievers: The Best Ways to Feel Better ( Elizabeth Scott, 2012) Breathing Exercise- an easy reliever; can do them anywhere, work quickly Meditation - builds on deep breathing promote health.

12. Guided Imagery- envisioning yourself in the midst of the most relaxing environment you can imagine. Visualization - imagining yourself achieving your goals Self-hypnosis - enables you to communicate directly with your subconsciousness mind to enhance your abilities

13. Exercise - provides a distraction from stressful situations; an outlet for frustrations. Progressive muscles relaxation- tensing and relaxing all the muscle groups in your body. Sex - provides physical benefits. Music - Lower your blood pressure; relax your body and your mind. Yoga - combines the practices of several other stress management techniques.

14. Stress Relief Reminders Make Gentle Reminders- think about bright or the positive side about the things that gives you 2. Be Careful With Comparisons- Choose to compare yourself to people who have less than you 3. Keep a Gratitude Journal- Keep a catalog of happy memories and a long list of things in your life for which you are grateful for.