Stress vs Anxiety
Stress is usually triggered by what type of event?
A real or immediate challenge, demand, or pressure.
Name one physical signal of stress.
Headache, upset stomach, muscle tension, fatigue, etc.
Name one healthy way to release stress
Deep breathing, walking, journaling, prayer, listening to music, etc.
Name one unhealthy coping strategy.
Smoking, drinking, isolating, lashing out, overeating, etc.
You have a court date tomorrow and feel your heart racing. Is this stress or anxiety?
Stress
Anxiety is different from stress because it...?
Continues even when there is no direct trigger or danger
Name one emotional signal of stress
Irritability, crying, sadness, worry, frustration, etc.
Which “R” involves changing how you look at a problem?
Reframe
Why is smoking not a long-term healthy coping skill?
It harms the body and only provides short-term relief.
You keep worrying that people are talking about you, even when nothing is happening. Is this stress or anxiety?
Anxiety
True or False: Stress can sometimes be positive and motivate you.
True
Smoking more, isolating, overeating, pacing, poor sleep, etc
How can social support help with stress?
Talking with friends/family reduces isolation and provides encouragement.
True or False: Avoiding all problems is a healthy way to manage stress.
False
You lost your housing voucher. What is one healthy coping strategy you could use?
Ask for support, problem-solve next steps, deep breathing, contacting a caseworker, etc.
Prolonged stress that doesn’t go away can lead to what?
Anxiety or depression
Which stage of stress is known as “fight or flight”?
Alarm Stage.
True or False: Practicing mindfulness can help lower stress.
True
What might happen if someone relies only on unhealthy coping strategies?
Stress and symptoms may get worse, health can decline, relationships may suffer.
Your family member keeps asking you for money and it stresses you out. Which “R” could help?
Reconcile (accept limits) or Reframe (see it as setting healthy boundaries).
Give one example of stress and one example of anxiety.
Stress = worrying about rent being due. Anxiety = worrying constantly even when bills are paid.
What stage of stress can lead to burnout if stress is not managed?
Exhaustion Stage.
Give one coping strategy you could use during a storm or crisis.
Preparing food, making emergency contacts, going to a safe shelter, deep breathing, etc.
Which is an example of “masking” stress instead of managing it?
Using drugs/alcohol to numb feelings instead of dealing with the cause.
You feel overwhelmed and start isolating. What could you do instead?
Reach out for support, take a walk, write down thoughts, attend PSR group.