1. Managing Stress and coping with loss

2. When Stress becomes a problem
Chronic Stress- stress associated with long term problems that are beyond a person’s control
Stress that is a constant burden that can last for months
There are positive actions we can take to deal with stress. We can’t eliminate all stress from our lives, but we can manage it. We just need to learn strategies to keep stress from building up.

3. Stress-Management Techniques
Avoiding stressful situations is the easiest way
If you are unable to avoid a stressor try by using these strategies
Use refusal Skills
Plan ahead
Think positively
Avoid tobacco, alcohol and other drugs

4. Handling stress and reducing it’s effects
Some stressors may be unavoidable
Weather causing you to be late
Flat tire
A boss that is stressed and takes it out on you
-When you can’t avoid stressors try lower your impact of stress on your health by trying these healthy tips ………………………………………………………… ….

5. Practice relaxation techniques
Deep breathing
Thinking pleasant thoughts
Stretching
Taking a warm bath
Getting a massage
Laughing
Relaxation Response- A state of calm

6. Redirect your energy Seek Support Work on a creative project
Go for a walk, jog, bike ride, play sports, or swim
Seek Support
Talk about your feelings
Confide in someone you trust

7. Staying Healthy and Building Resiliency
Developing habits that maintain your general health will also help reduce the effects of stress. They can help with preventing stress, reducing stress, and helping your mind recover from stress
Get Adequate Rest
Get regular physical activity
Eat nutritious foods

8. Coping with loss and grief
Grieving is a common and natural reaction to any loss that brings on strong emotions.
Loss feels hurtful but does not have to be harmful

9. The Grieving Process
Stages of Grief- A variety of reactions that may surface as an individual makes sense of how a loss affects him or her
Denial or numbness
Emotional release
Anger
Bargaining
Depression
Remorse
Acceptance
Hope

10. Coping- Dealing successfully with difficult changes in your life
Mourning- the act of showing sorry or grief
Traumatic Event- Is any event that has a stressful impact sufficient to overwhelm your normal coping strategies

11. Showing Empathy
If you know of someone who is grieving there are ways you can show support:
Help the person recall happy memories
Be a sympathetic listener and use silence when appropriate
Use empathy
Don’t rush the grieving process or attempt to resolve the person’s grief in one day