1. Anxiety, Depression & Coping Strategies

2. Anxiety Feeling uneasy or worried Causes: New pressures, challenges that make life seem hectic Perfectionism – everything must be perfect! Sleep habits affected and mild depression. Reduce Anxiety by having realistic expectations, positive attitude, stress mgmt, physical activity.

3. Depression Prolonged feeling of helplessness, hopelessness, and sadness 2 types: Reactive Depression: “Feeling Blue” Major Depression: Medical Condition requiring treatment Symptoms : Irritable, change in wt. or appetite, change in mood, sleep patterns, energy levels Experiencing these is normal on occasion – no more than 2 weeks What Works Activity and Recognizing Depression

4. The Stress Road

5. 5 STEPS OF THE STRESS ROAD STEP 1 = NEW OR POTENTIALLY UNPLEASANT SITUATION STEP 2 = INTERPRETATION OF THE SITUATION AS THREATENING STEP 3 = EMOTIONAL RESPONSE STEP 4 = PHYSICAL RESPONSE STEP 5 = NEGATIVE CONSEQUENCES

6. 4 ROAD BLOCKS TO THE STRESS ROAD BLOCK 1 – Eliminate the stressor BLOCK 2 – Change your interpretation BLOCK 3 – Use Relaxation Techniques BLOCK 4 – Physical Exercise

7. RELAXATION TECHNIQUES 1.MEDITATION – FOCUS ON BREATHING 2.Jacobson’s Progressive Relaxation- relaxed position, tense and relax muscles (major muscle groups) 3.Body Scanning – scan body for tight muscles (tense & relax for 5-10 sec.) 4.Imagery – quiet, relax, focus on seeing an image in your mind 5.Autogenic Training – verbal exercises, generate within (heaviness, warmth, calm, relax) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zjh3pEnLIXQ