1. Stress and How to Deal With It! Kelli Jernigan

2. What is a stressor?

3. Levels of Stress Everyone experiences some level of stress. Some level of stress is good. It helps us do our best. But there is unhealthy stress, too. This can make us sick!

4. What you need to know! Optimum Level

5. Physical signs of too much stress: Headaches Neck or backaches Increased sweating Tightness of chest Nervous stomach Inability to fall asleep Dry mouth Fatigue Can ’ t think clearly

6. Emotional & Behavioral Signs: Irritability Impatience Forgetfulness Negative thinking Loss of appetite or overeating Withdrawing from relationships

7. Loss of interest in normal activities Restlessness Inability to sleep Worrying & Anxious over many things Emotional & Behavioral Signs (continued):

8. What are some common stressors for your age group?

9. Quizzes, tests, homework Relationships with friends Arguing with a sibling Being bullied by your peers Worrying about appearance Getting glasses or braces Getting in trouble at home or at school Here are some...

10. People respond to stressors differently. Finding a positive coping strategy that works best for you is very important.

11. Common positive coping strategies: Talk to a trusted adult, parent/guardian, teacher, counselor Time management skills Deep breathing Exercise Write in a journal Visualize yourself doing well Mental rehearsal Counting to ten before reacting

12. Let’s click and watch how this strategy helps with stress! Let’s click and watch how this strategy helps with stress! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OiaU V-OiBGE http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OiaU V-OiBGE

13. Did the breathing help? If you feel more relaxed and calm, this coping strategy worked for you!

14. 1. List 3 PERSONAL stressors in YOUR life. 2. List positive coping strategies that you would like to try. 3. Describe the coping strategies you listed in number 2.

15. Keep your notes to review! Remember to talk about what you have learned today with a friend or your family! I am so proud of each of you! Work on keeping stress under control! You can do it!