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5: Stress

  • Page ID
    73812
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    Learning Outcomes

    By the end of this chapter you will be able to:

    • Define Stress
    • Assess your level of stress
    • Describe the physiological reaction of the “fight or flight” response
    • Recognize the effects of stress on well being
    • Describe productive and counterproductive cognitive and behavioral stress responses
    • Apply stress reducing strategies

    Have you ever said to someone “I am so stressed out”?

    If so, what were you stressed about?

    How did you feel when you were stressed?

    What did you do when you were feeling stressed?

    • 5.1: What is Stress?
      This page explores the concept of stress as the body's reaction to challenges, distinguishing between short-term and long-term stressors. It describes physical, emotional, and behavioral stress responses, including the "Fight or Flight" reaction, and notes that stress can arise from both positive and negative changes.
    • 5.2: Stress and Disease
      This page discusses the complex relationship between stress and health, noting individual responses to stressors as either positive (eustress) or negative (distress). Eustress can improve performance, while chronic distress may result in health problems. It outlines Hans Selye's General Adaptation Syndrome, which includes three stages of stress response: Alarm, Resistance, and Exhaustion.
    • 5.3: Coping with Stress
      This page offers strategies for managing stress, highlighting the importance of cognitive, relaxation, and behavioral methods. It discusses problem-solving, flexibility, and resilience as cognitive strategies, and includes relaxation techniques like deep breathing and meditation. Additionally, it emphasizes social connections, seeking professional help, and engaging in activities such as volunteer work and hobbies for self-esteem and connection.
    • 5.5: End-of-Chapter Material
      This page defines stress and stressors, elaborates on the stress response, including the fight or flight mechanism, and underscores varied individual reactions to stress. It notes the dual nature of stress, where moderate levels can be beneficial, but excessive stress can lead to health problems. The chapter emphasizes the need for productive coping strategies and proactive stress management techniques to promote well-being.


    This page titled 5: Stress is shared under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Kelly Falcone via source content that was edited to the style and standards of the LibreTexts platform.