Stress & Depression

Eustress&

Distress

(Thermometer)

Causes of Stress

• What are your “stress buttons”?

Biological – tired, hungryEnvironmental – noise, rushingCognitive – thoughts, worriesEmotions – loneliness, fearsPersonal Behavior – over-eating, under-eating, procrastinationLife 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?

Physical EffectsHow 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 tirednessPhysical - bodyPsychological - 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

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/CommunityResources

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