Coping with Stress in Middle and Late Adolescence

Overview of Stress

• Definition of Stress:

  • A reaction of the mind and body to a stimulus disturbing well-being or equilibrium.
  • Example: Less stressed during vacations compared to during online classes.
  • Stress affects both the mind and body, leading to weakness and decreased physical capability.
  • Load Management: Technique used by athletes to preserve energy, applicable to student stress management.

• Potential Effects:

  • Excessive stress can lead to psychological problems and mental health concerns requiring professional intervention.

Understanding Stress

Stress as a Stimulus

• Stimulus Definition: Changes in the environment prompting a response.
  • Examples include life-threatening or life-changing situations.
  • Positive events like college graduation can also cause stress.
• Stressors: Environmental factors that cause stress.

Stress as a Reaction

• The body's reaction to challenging situations, both physical and psychological.
• Adaptation response to improve performance and handle stress.
• Cortisol: Stress hormone produced naturally but harmful in excessive, prolonged exposure.

Stress as Relational

• Involves reassessing and reevaluating the stress-causing situation.
• Emphasizes adopting a positive outlook to mitigate stress impact.
• Understanding controllable events and capabilities to manage situations.

Types of Stress

• Eustress:

  • Positive stress that energizes and focuses individuals, e.g., excitement before a workout or game.
  • Can lead to personal improvement and achievement.

• Distress:

  • Negative stress leading to fatigue, exhaustion, and burnout.
  • Burnout results in loss of interest in activities like career or school.

Common Stressors in Adolescence

• Academic Demands: Numerous requirements, lack of resources, or school selection challenges.
• Separation Anxiety: Stress from being away from family or familiar environments.
• Future Concerns: Worries about college life or relationships.
• Family Expectations: Pressure to meet specific career paths or family traditions.
• Health and Body Image: Concerns about personal health or body image.
• Social and Bullying Issues: Long-term impact of bullying on self-concept.

Coping with Stress

Stress Bucket Model

• Stress Level: Represented by water in a bucket, filled by interpersonal, academic, and environmental stress.
• Coping Skills: Techniques to release stress and manage bucket levels, including healthy and unhealthy methods.

Unhealthy Coping Skills

• Includes drug use, excessive alcohol, risky behaviors, which provide temporary relief but lead to more problems.

Healthy Coping Skills

• Creative Imagery: Reflect on problems and understand their causes.
• Social Support: Seek support from family or friends.
• Relaxation Techniques: Progressive muscle relaxation, breathing exercises.
• Creating Comfortable Environments: Designate quiet zones for reflection and sharing feelings.
• Time Management: Balance academic and personal life to reduce stress.
• Nutrition and Exercise: Maintain physical and psychological well-being.

Conclusion

• Emphasize managing stress through healthy coping mechanisms.
• Avoid unhealthy coping methods and prioritize mental health and well-being.