CHAPTER 6

It is defined as the process by which individual responds to environmental and psychological events that are perceived as threatening or challenging.

Ways in which Stress can Occur

A person in a physically or mentally demanding or dangerous situation is said to be under stress

More than one factor causing stress can be present at one time

Stress Response

When a person is subjected to stressors, the strength and duration of the stress response that follows depend on physical and mental condition of the individual. The response is the same each time. It is the intensity and period of time that alter. The stress response can be described as a chain reaction of changes within the body.

Effects of Stress
The effects of stress can be complex, but they all involve a certain group of certain body responses. These responses arose in the course of evolution, as the individuals met situations of physical danger.

Positive Effects of Stress

Under certain circumstances, stress is valuable, as for instance, in sports and making speeches. The stress response develops ones mettle, increases alertness, improves sight, strengthen muscles and reduces reaction of time.

The stress response increases our ability to stand and fight, to turn and flee and to mobilize all our resources to achieve whatever we decide to do.
The zest that stress adds to life by stimulating the senses and passions.

Negative Effects of Stress

It may decline the work performance. Gets easily irritated and anxious over things no matter how trivial they may be.
It affects a persons mental, emotional state, and physical health.

It show up in the following ways: (1)unsuitable behavior, (2)lower energy and performance level, (3)poorer health.
It affects the immune system.

STRESSORS
Physical Stressors Social Stressors Psychological Stressors

PHYSICAL STRESSORS
-Heat

-Cold -Noise -Traffic -Poor working conditions

SOCIAL STRESSORS
-Social Economic and Political situations

-Family -Job and career -Interpersonal and environmental stressors

PSYCHOLOGICAL STRESSORS
Frustration- occurs when ones strivings are thwarted by obstacles that block progress toward a desired goal. Conflicts- it is the simultaneous occurrence of two or more important but incompatible needs or motives. Pressures- It forces a person to change the direction of a goal-oriented behavior

STRESS SIGNALS
A stress signal acts as a red light or warning bell to tell us that action is needed to prevent more serious problems from developing.

PHYSICAL
-change in breathing rhythm

-tense and aching muscles -headaches -sweating -cold hands and feet

MENTAL
-Lack of concentration

-More frequent mistakes -Forgetfulness/ Absent mindedness -Tendency to over-react -Poorer judgment

EMOTIONAL
-Irritation/ Short temper

-Nervousness -Depression/Silence -Emotional Outbursts/Crying

BEHAVIORAL
-Insomnia -Increased drinking/ Smoking/ Eating -Absenteeism -Clumsiness

HOW TO COPE WITH STRESS

Cognitive Responses
--Involves reappraisal, raising

self-esteem and developing self efficacy

Informational Responses
Seeking out information and gaining a better understanding of the stressful situation can be an important step in coping with stress.

Behavioral Responses
1. Sleep well, eat well, avoid harm, and

exercise regularly. 2. Develop and maintain a relaxation program.

3. Do things you enjoy. Develop hobbies.

4. Be part of a social network and know that you can rely on others to help in time of crisis.

5. Learn to set aside problems temporarily.

6. Have a clear picture of your life goals. a.Check your priorities; update your value system. b. Develop trust in God
7. Nurture your faith dimension. a. Have regular meditation and prayer

b. Seek Gods will and yield to it.

8. Take a break or vacation.

Post traumatic Stress Disorder