Understanding Stress and Its Effects

Study Notes

Stress is a normal reaction to both positive and negative events.
Some stress is beneficial, motivating people to perform at their best.
Excessive stress, or distress, can be detrimental to health, causing physical and emotional problems.

Stressors are events or situations that cause stress.
Everyday problems, like arguments with friends, can be stressors.
Major events, like earthquakes, are also stressors.
Even positive events, such as moving or adding family members, can be stressful.
People react to stressors differently.

The fight-or-flight response is triggered by a stressor.
The brain signals the body to produce adrenaline, impacting various bodily functions.
The heart speeds up, the stomach clenches, and other physical changes occur.

Prolonged stress can harm physical, mental/emotional, and social health.
Physical effects include headaches, back pain, fatigue, upset stomach, sleep problems.
Long-term stress can lead to weight gain, high blood pressure, or heart disease.
Emotional effects include anxiety, anger, sadness.
Stress can impair concentration and memory, impacting schoolwork.
Stress can lead to irritability and potential conflict in relationships.

Stress management involves avoiding stressors when possible and developing coping mechanisms.
Time management is a crucial strategy for stress reduction.
Planning ahead and organizing schedules can reduce stress.
Prioritization is essential to manage time efficiently.
Saying "no" to excessive commitments is also important.
Healthy habits (good nutrition and sufficient sleep) can help manage stress.
Relaxation techniques (deep breathing, stretching, taking hot showers, listening to music) can help.
Physical activity (sports, walking, exercising) relieves stress and promotes well-being.
Open communication (talking about feelings, journaling) can reduce stress.
Maintaining a positive outlook is beneficial. Laughing and finding humor in difficult situations is a coping mechanism.