What is stress?

1. What is stress? By: Stephanie Desmarais October 2012

2. Definition of Stress: • The way our body responds to the demands put on us by the environment, relationships, and our own thoughts and perceptions of what is going on around us. • Mental, emotional, or physical strain or tension. • Stress is your body’s physical and emotional reaction to circum- stances that frighten, irritate, confuse, endanger or excite you etc. • the body's way of rising to a challenge and preparing to meet a tough situation with focus, strength, stamina, and heightened alertness.

3. Good stress vs. BAD Good: Bad: Gets in the way and may prevent you from completing tasks or getting stuff done Puts extra demands on your mind and body making it hard to accomplish anything • Pushes you to complete a task or do something • Motivates you… • Pushes you outside your comfort zone so you can accomplish things you never thought you could

4. Symptoms & Signs of Stress: • Head and body aches (back pain, chest pain etc.) • Upset Stomach • Increased heart rate • Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep • Sleeping too much • Anxiety, worrying, irritability • Forgetfulness / Lack of focus • Eating too much or too little • Relationship conflicts • Restlessness • Different emotional responses (sadness, anger, outbursts etc.)

5. What’s important to know about stress: • Stress is normal • Stress is a part of our daily lives • Stress can be toxic or traumatic, and may interfere with our ability to cope with certain situations • The way we respond to stress may be influenced by knowing ways to manage stress and the use of different coping strategies • (The Psychology Foundation of Canada)