Intro to Stress
What is stress?
A natural human response to a threat or challenge.
A state of worry or mental tension.
What are things you CAN control?
- My goals
- My behaviour/actions
- Who my friends are
- Asking for help
- My attitude
What is mindfulness?
Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment, without judgment, and noticing thoughts, feelings, and sensations as they arise, fostering a sense of awareness and presence.
- Focus on the present
- Acceptance without judgement
How many hours of sleep do teens need per night?
8-10 hours per night.
What are some causes of stress for youth?
- School
- Parents
- Friends/Peers
- Goals/Expectations
What are things you CAN'T control?
- What other people think
- What other people say
- The weather
- Homework/school
- Past mistakes
What ways can you practice mindfulness?
- Mindful breathing
- Mindful walking
- Mindful eating
- Mindful listening
- Mindful observation
What are the 5 food groups?
1) Fruits
2) Vegetables
3) Protein
4) Dairy
5) Grains
What is the "fight or flight" response?
A body reaction to stress that prepares your body the confront the threat (fight) or flee (flight).
What is a growth mindset?
A growth mindset means to embrace challenges, view failures as learning opportunities, and persisting in the face of setbacks.
Why is music used to de-stress?
Music is often used to de-stress because it can trigger the release of "feel-good" chemicals in the brain, like dopamine, which can boost your mood and reduce stress.
How many times a week should teens be active?
Youth aged 12-17 should engage in 60 minutes of physical activity daily.
Why is it important to manage stress?
- Maintain physical and mental wellbeing
- Improve quality of sleep
- Increase self awareness
- Build resilience
- Lower the risk of serious health conditions
What is a fixed mindset?
A fixed mindset focuses on the negative. Someone with a fixed mindset will avoid challenges, refuse feedback, feel threatened by the success of others, can't accept mistakes, won't take safe risks or step out of their comfort zone.
Why is movement used to de-stress?
Movement is used to destress because it triggers the release of endorphins, which have mood-boosting and pain-reducing effects. Movement can distract the mind from stressors and refocus it on the physical sensations of the body, leading to improved mental and physical relaxation.
What are the 4 steps for healthy eating habits?
1) Eat Slowly
2) Concentrate
3) Eat Regularly
4) Control Portion Size