Managing Stress

Questions • What is stress?

• What causes stress?

• How can we manage stress?

• How can we help others manage stress?

What Is Stress?

...our body’s physical and emotional reaction to circumstances or events that frighten, irritate, confuse, endanger, or excite us.

The Work Underload -Overload Continuum Optimal Stress Work Underload Moderate Work Load Work Overload

What Causes Stress?

• People – Self expectations – Impersonal barriers – Conflicting desires • Situations – Expectations – Time – Lack of resources – Lack of vision & goals

Stages of Reaction to Stress • Alarm • Resistance • Exhaustion

How Can We Manage Stress?

• Keep life in perspective • Exercise • Take time to work • Take time to play • Learn to relax • Avoid frustrations • Develop productive work skills • Don’t bottle up things • Set realistic expectations • Live in the present • Laugh often and loud

How Can We Help Others Manage Stress?

• Encourage expression of feelings • Help identify stressors • Relieve pressures • Facilitate adaptation

Summary • We need some stress to perform at peak levels • Help others deal with stress -- talk (don’t complain) • Be prepared -- take time to “sharpen the saw” • People and things cause stress -- control both • Avoid frustration • Exercise • Smile • Be around those you like • Enjoy sunsets