LIB: Stress & Well-Being

Stress Basics

100

Something in the world that makes a demand on a person.

Stressor 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 3)}

200

An internal reaction to the demand of a stressor.

Stress 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 3)}

300

Substances that temporarily reduce stress but cause more later.

Mood-altering drugs 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 1)}

400

A strategy like calling a sponsor or exercising to handle stress.

Coping strategy 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 2)}

500

These systems, like self-help groups, help make stressors less potent.

External supports 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 3)}

Types of Stressors

100

These occur when obstacles block a person from reaching a goal.

Frustrations 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 4)}

200

Stress that forces people to achieve goals by working harder or faster.

Pressures 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 5)}

300

This occurs when there are two opposing forces—one against the other.

Conflicts

^{(Session 8 ... p. 7)}

400

An internal obstacle like guilt or fear that blocks a goal.

Internal frustration 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 4)}

500

A choice between two favorite "Twelve Step" meetings at the same time.

Internal conflict 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 8)}

Defense Mechanisms

100

A mechanism where people do not let themselves think about painful thoughts.

Repression 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 6)}

200

A defense where a person avoids feelings by using "logical" explanations.

Intellectualization 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 6)}

300

Avoiding hope to protect oneself from being disappointed again.

Emotional insulation 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 6)}

400

Returning to less mature, old ways of dealing with the world.

Regression 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 7)}

500

Defenses developed during addiction that can actually hinder recovery.

Old defense mechanisms 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 5)}

The 3 Stages

100

The first stage of stress where a person becomes more alert and tense.

Alarm 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 18)}

200

The stage where people become rigid and cling to defense mechanisms.

Resistance 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 18)}

300

The final stage where coping mechanisms fail and a person may collapse.

Exhaustion 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 18)}

400

These experiences indicate a person is "falling apart" during the final stage.

Hallucinations/Delusions 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 18)}

500

Stress and poor resources cause these to "run out" in Stage 3.

Individual resources 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 18)}

Erik’s Story

100

This was the first stressful event Erik faced at work in the morning.

Behind on paperwork 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 19)}

200

Erik was written up for this reason after returning from lunch.

Taking a long lunch 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 19)}

300

This unexpected vehicle issue delayed Erik for an hour on his way home.

Flat tire 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 20)}

400

Erik and his wife argued mostly about this specific topic.

Money/Bills 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 20)}

500

Erik’s son was seen "hanging out" here instead of attending class.

Across the street from school 

^{(Session 8 ... p. 19)}