STRESS!!

By Jocelyn, Year 10

What is Stress?

When you feel that the challenges that have been presented to you are too much for you to cope with and you will not be able to deal with the things you have to do.

Also: A state of extreme difficulty,

pressure or strain A feeling of suffering from mental tension

A physical, mental or emotional factor causing worry

A Challenge is...

when the thing you have to do will stretch your abilities and may not come easily to you.

It is something difficult, but still achievable

When we look at things as a challenge, this can help to stop us from getting stressed

Are you a Stressburger?

Stressburgers get overwhelmed. They have difficulty coping when the workload is increased, and tend to lose it when they feel they can’t handle everything anymore. They often feel like everything is just being piled onto them, or they are squashed in between everything with no escape – like a burger!!

... Or a Stress Juggler?

Everyone feels stressed, but it is how we handle it that is important. If you are a stress juggler, then you are able to cope with stress, and deal with situations well, instead of breaking down. You can plan and prioritise, and don’t get too overwhelmed. They tend to handle challenges well – like juggling!!

How Do I know When I’m Stressed?

There are many signs of stress, though they may vary from person to person: Pain (headaches, stomach ache, sore

muscles) Problems sleeping (always tired, can’t get to

sleep, sleeping too much, interrupted sleep) Problems eating (indigestion, eating

more/less that usual) Sick more often Clenching your teeth, fists Shallow breathing or sweating Breaking out in pimples

The Non-Physical Signs:

Feeling tense and not being able to relax More anger than normal, violent feelings Easily upset and irritable Feeling worried, unhappy or depressed Over or under-eating Inability to make decisions Not being able to concentrate Becoming forgetful Not feeling enjoyment anymore, becoming

unenthusiastic, no motivation Having negative thoughts

WHAT DO I DO!?!??!

The most important thing is to recognise that you are stressed. Once you know this, it becomes easier to deal with the problem

After this, it is time to face your fears. Realise what is bothering you he most. This allows you to deal with it

Identify the things that you can change. Many factors will be out of your power, so there is no point wasting your time trying to change them!

Take action to reduce stressful situations...

Strategies

RELAX!! It seems silly, but this is often the hardest thing to do when you are under pressure. Try doing something you enjoy – often doing exercise is a great way of relaxing, and it will help to clear your head.

Take a short break – This time out can really help. Take them frequently, too.

Be active – this is a great way to release tension, and make yourself feel better

Be with others – social interaction is healthy and will make you feel so much better!

Be positive – positive self-talk and optimistic thinking will help heaps! Be grateful and look for the good in everything

Where to get help...

Remember:

Be a stress juggler, not a stress burger!!