The Stress Response:
Positive
Stress Response
Stressor
Negative
Stress Response
Interpretation- How your brain interprets the stressor
-Occurs due to a relationship between your brain and the rest of the body
-Your brain senses a stressor and evaluates it
-No threat- no bodily harm
-If there is a threat, the physical responses are:
-more blood goes to the brain
-heart races
-more blood goes to limbs
-mouth gets drier
-start to sweat
-muscles tense
Why does this stress response occur?
The body responds in the same manner for a non-physical threat. Eg. A presentation in class. You do not release the stress like you would in a physical threat by either running or fighting.
Here are some secrets to help reduce stress:
-Exercise and eat regularly
-Avoid lots of caffeine intake which can increase feelings of anxiety
-Avoid illegal drugs, alcohol and tobacco
-Learn relaxation exercises
-Practice situations that cause you stress.
-Don't talk negativly, be uplifting and encouraging towards yourself and others
-Learn to feel good about doing an "alright" or “good enough” job rather than wanting perfection from yourself and others
-Take a break from stressful situations. Activities like listening to music, talking to a friend, drawing, writing, or spending time with a pet can reduce stress
-Surround yourself with postive and uplifting friends!