1. Iowa State University Mark Rowe-Barth Director of Student Wellness
Stress Less
Iowa State University
Mark Rowe-Barth
Director of Student Wellness

2. Stress
Turn to the people around you and discuss the following questions
What is stress?
What does stress look like for you?
What strategies do you use to de-stress?

3. What is Stress?
Stress is the body’s reaction to any change that requires an adjustment or response. The body reacts to these changes with physical, mental, and emotional responses.
Stress is a normal part of life. You can experience stress from your environment, your body, and your thoughts. Even positive life changes such as a first job, starting college, or falling in love produce stress.
Eustress: Positive stress such as falling in love, starting a new job, or coming to college.
Distress: Negative stress such as failing a test, breaking up with a significant other, or not getting along with a roommate.

4. National College Health Assessment (NCHA)
According to the 2017 NCHA, Iowa State students indicated that stress is their #1 impediment to academic success
What do you think of this?
Does it surprise you?
Why do you think students are so stressed out?

5. The Long Term Impact of Negative Stress
What are the long term impacts of stress?
Some Examples
Anxiety
Depression
Digestive problems
Headaches
Heart disease
Sleep problems
Memory and concentration impairment

6. Activities
We know that stress affects all of us and has a strong connection to our academic success.
We are going to focus this program on learning and practicing three evidence-based stress management strategies you can use in your daily life at ISU.

7. Mindfulness Exercise: The 5 Senses

8. Progressive Muscle Relaxation Exercise

9. Deep Breathing Exercise

10. Discussion
How did those activities go for you? How was your experience?
What was challenging? What was easy?
What are some other strategies you use or know of to help you manage stress?

11. Strategies to Reduce Stress
Take a break from the stressor
Movement
Smile and laugh
Get support
Meditate
Deep breathing
Yoga
Get a massage
Take a bubble bath
Dance
Listen to music
Get enough ZZZ’s
Progressive muscle relaxation
Recreational sports
Emerse yourself in pleasurable activities
Create a relaxation plan
Get involved on campus!

12. Iowa State Stress Management Activities
Check out Student Wellness website for other stress information and resources
Visit Iowa State’s Workspace in Memorial Union
Biofeedback program at Student Counseling Services
Join a fun student organization. Find the whole list here:
CyBowl & Billiards
The Maintenance Shop for concerts
Leadership and service opportunities
And many more!

13. Post Evaluation
Please fill out your post evaluation and turn it into before you leave!
I will stick around for any questions you have.
Mark Rowe-Barth,