Stress
What is the difference between STRESS and the STRESSOR?
Stress is the effect of the stressor in the body. A stressor is the situation causing stress in the body!
All stress is bad.
MYTH.
Name one physical symptoms that lets you know you are in a normal or relaxed state, and name one physical symptoms that lets you know you are in a fight or flight stress response.
Relaxed: ↓ heart rate, ↓ pulse, ↓ blood pressure, ↓ muscle contraction/tension, ↑ deep abdominal breathing, ↑ blood vessel size, ↑ digestive action, ↓ body temp.
Fight or flight: ↑ heart rate, ↑ pulse, ↑ blood pressure, ↑ muscle contraction/tension, ↑ shallow chest breathing, ↓ blood vessel size, ↓ digestive action, ↑ body temp
We need a certain level of stress in our lives.
FACT. We need enough stress to have urgency to get things done. Too much causes a heightened stress response, which can affect our performance.
Name three physical symptoms caused by stress.
Stomachache, nausea, heartburn, muscle tightness, sweating, trembling, tingling or numbness, headache, change in appetite, unusually rapid speech, change in weight, change in sleep habits, change in skin, chest pains, dizziness, faintness, weakness, throat feeling like its closing, shortness or breath, heavy or faster breathing, racing or pounding heart.
The goal should be to eliminate all stress.
MYTH. The goal should be to learn how to move through stress and cope with it!
Name 5 different types of stressors.
With friends: peer pressure, problems with boyfriend/girlfriend, appearance or image, fitting in, relationships in general, drama, competition
In school life: homework, grades, pressure to do well, pressure about college, bullying, sports, teachers/coaches, classes, pressure about future
With family: not feeling accepted, financial problems, responsibilities, rules, problems with parents, problems with siblings, problems with other family members, mental health difficulties, medical illness
Other: social media, spending too much time on technology, self-harm, figuring out who you are, fear of missing out, religious or spirituality issues, health and fitness, time management, sexuality, sexting, gender identify, self-confidence/self-esteem, online bullying, concerns about violence
Making mistakes is always bad.
MYTH. It helps to foster growth & independence.
Name 4 proven ways to end the stress cycle.
Physical activity
Deep breathing
Positive social interaction
Laughter
Affection
Creative expression
Crying
Perfectionism can be adaptive or maladaptive.
FACT. “Striving for excellence” is adaptive!