Coping with Stress Practice

Explain how relaxing and/or laughing helps to reduce stress.

By adopting a "relax and laugh" coping strategy, it will make me choose to spend time with people that make me laugh. It might also help me participate in activities that are enjoyable and elicit laughter. It might also improve my immune system because laughter and relaxation boost an immune system. Relaxation also helps recharge your batteries.

Positive coping skills include all of the following EXCEPT: A. developing a positive attitude B. expressing oneself C. drinking excessive alcohol D. laughing or relaxing

C. drinking excessive alcohol

Which of the following is a benefit to getting an adequate amount of sleep? A. better concentration B. improved physical health C. improved chances of success D. all of the above

D. all of the above

Which of the following is NOT a healthy way to express yourself? A. keeping a journal B. being creative C. talking to others D. fighting to release energy

D. fighting to release energy

Once the cause of stress has been identified, there are no behaviors that can lessen the effect of or eliminate the stress. True/False

False

When practicing refusal skills, it is beneficial to participate in a potentially stressful or threatening situation. True/False

False

Describe the importance of getting enough sleep.

Getting 8 to 9 hours of sleep a night improves concentration and allows for clearer thoughts. Sleep can also improve individual mood and attitude. It also improves physical health and chances of success.

When considering the claim that eating well helps to reduce stress, what advice might your give a friend who appears to be stressed about an upcoming exam but chooses to have chips and soda for lunch every day?

I may tell my friend that a poor diet can lead to fatique and the inability to concentrate on or prepare effectively for her exam. Rather than drinking soda, I would recommend that my friend drink more water and limit comfort foods. I also may remind my friend that eating a balanced diet helps to decrease any school- or work-related stress.

List and briefly describe some examples of positive ways to cope with stress.

Positive coping skills include redirecting energy, which includes trying something new like a creative project or working out; relaxing and laughing, which help recharge your energy; maintaining a positive attitude, which includes being confident and embracing positive values; seeking support from trusted persons; and expressing oneself, which is important because it allows you to express your thoughts and desires.

Briefly describe some examples of negative ways to cope with stress.

Some negative coping strategies include smoking, drinking alcohol, or using drugs. It might also include over- and undereating as a way to manage stress. Lashing out at others is another negative way stress shows. Finally, many choose to avoid the problem altogether by sleeping too much, watching TV or playing on the computer hour after hour, and withdrawing from family and friends.