Teenage StressTake the stress quiz!

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What is stress? •Webster's defines stress as a physical, chemical, or

emotional factor that causes bodily or mental

tension and that may be a factor in causing disease.

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Why should we discuss stress?• Teenage Stress is a big thing, it can cause more

harm than just a few pimples. • Teenage Stress has been proven as an indirect

cause of eating disorders, depression, social/physical/emotional changes, and even something as serious as suicide.

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Stress video• http://bcove.me/7dfnb0

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Causes of StressHow one's body reacts to change can be called stress. These changes can come from :

• Feelings• Situations• People

For example, going to a new school is a change that can cause stress.

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StressorsThings that cause stress are called stressors. For example:•going to a new school •divorce or separation of parents •competing•taking a test •death of a relative •being sick

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Is all stress bad?

Most people define stress as worry, tension and pressure, but all stress isn't bad. Some stress can be happy, exciting and challenging. We need stress in our lives; without it life would be dull.

For example, right before a race, Mark always feels a little nervous. This stress helps Mark stay alert and prepared.

Can you name a time when stress helped you stay alert and prepared?

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A mild degree of stress and tension can sometimes be beneficial. • Feeling mildly stressed when carrying out a

project or assignment often compels us to do a good job and to work energetically.

• It is only when stress is overwhelming, or poorly managed, that its negative effects appear.

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What causes stress to be good or bad?

Our thoughts, feelings and beliefs about a situation can make stress good (pleasant) or bad (unpleasant).

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• Situations that cause us to feel happy, excited, surprised, etc, can be called good stressors

• Situations that cause us to feel sad, scared, mad, etc, can be called bad stressors.

• What is a good (happy, excited, etc) stressor for you?• What is a bad (sad, scared, etc) stressor for you?

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SOME SIGNS OF STRESS Physical (body)

• Headaches• Nervousness• Rashes• Stomach aches• Fast heartbeat• Perspiration• Increased urination

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SOME SIGNS OF STRESSMental (mind)

• Lack of Concentration• Forgetfulness• Drop in school performance• Unable to study• Carelessness

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SOME SIGNS OF STRESSEmotional (feelings)

• Bored• Anger outbursts• Nightmares• Sad/depressed• Scared• Withdrawn• Fighting

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Stress Management• The goal is to identify resources to help you

manage the stresses in your life. • Note: Not elimination or even reduction of stress,

because stress is a part of normal life. It's impossible to completely eliminate stress, and it would not be advisable to do so.

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How Do You Balance the Stress in Your Life?• Stay aware of your signs of stress. If you are having

signs of stress, follow the tips below to avoid stress overload (distress).

• Since stress will be with us the rest of our lives, it is important to know some ways of dealing with stress.

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Ways to handle too much stress• Take deep breaths/Practice deep

breathing exercises • Watch your thoughts/think positive • Find time to relax and cool out • Pray or read something inspirational • Visualize what you want to happen

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Ways to handle too much stress• Use pressure points to reduce

headaches • Eat a nutritious meal or snack • Take one thing at a time • Talk problems over with a friend or

counselor • Don't dwell on your weaknesses

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Ways to handle too much stress• Feel proud of your

accomplishments • Exercise daily • Do muscle tension relaxation

exercises • Punch a pillow, scream or kick a

can • Prepare for tests early • Set realistic goals

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Ways to handle too much stress• Stop worrying about things that may

never happen • Learn from your mistakes • Forgive yourself and others • Get involved with things you like to do • Make time for fun • Do something for others

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I love dancing!

TEENAGE STRESS• It’s Manageable!• Remember, stress is normal and can be a good

thing in helping motivate us to be our best!

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Case StudyAnswer & turn in at end of classJim is a high school senior. He is the editor of the yearbook & has a

part-time job (15-20 hours per week) at the mall. On most school days, Jim works in the journalism office before school and during lunch so he can go straight to work right after school. As a result, Jim, eats every meal “on the go” and rarely eats a meal at home with his family. He depends on donuts, cookies, and other high fat foods from the quick stop store and fast food restaurants for his meal.•What suggestions do you have for Jim?•Why should Jim change his present habits?•What are the potential long-term effects of Jim’s current lifestyle?

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