Eustress & Distress (Thermometer) Stress & Depression Eustress & Distress (Thermometer)
Causes of Stress What are your “stress buttons”? Biological – tired, hungry Environmental – noise, rushing Cognitive – thoughts, worries Emotions – loneliness, fears Personal Behavior – over-eating, under-eating, procrastination Life Situations – family, friends, work
Mental/Emotional Effects How can stress affect your mental and/or emotional health? Difficulty concentrating Negative self-talk Mood swings Risks of Substance abuse What is your response to stress? Does it increase or decrease your stress level?
How does stress show up in your body? Physical Effects How does stress show up in your body? Headache Stomach ache Asthma High Blood Pressure = Heart Disease Weight gain or loss Weakened Immune System = Infections
Body’s Stress Response *Alarm (adrenal glands - adrenaline) *Fight or Flight - lift an auto, freeze *Fatigue – extreme tiredness Physical - body Psychological - mind
Stress Bank Fun Activity Pledge: 1 activity/day for 1 week Brainstorm a List of Fun Activities Deposit in your Stress Bank at least 1 funny story 3 hobbies, pastimes, or activities the names of 3 support people 3 ways of saying no to others 3 strategies for planning or thinking ahead
Stress-Managing Strategies Identify causes of stress Plan ahead – Manage your time Adequate sleep Regular physical activity Nutritious food Avoid tobacco, alcohol, drugs Support among family and friends Relaxing hobby or activity Keep a positive attitude Express yourself – needs, wants, feelings
How can you reach a state of calm? Relaxation Response How can you reach a state of calm? Deep breathing (exercises) Pleasant thoughts (laughter) Stretching (yoga, tai chi, chi gong) Meditation
Warning Signs of Depression What might someone say that would indicate that they were experiencing the following? Low Motivation – don’t want to do… Change in grades Persistent Sadness – does not go away Fatigue – no energy Feel worthless, hopeless, irritable, guilty Isolating – withdrawing from people Start using drugs Thoughts of suicide Lack of concentration – can’t make decisions
School/Community Resources How can each of the following provide help? Counselor Teacher Coach Clergy member Physician Friend or family member Reliable Help-lines or Websites
High School Stress Inventory