This PowerPoint covers the definition, causes, symptoms and ways in which individuals can cope with stress positively.

1. Stress
Definition, Causes, Symptoms and Solutions

2. What is Stress?
Stress is a state of mental and emotional strain on our body, mind and spirit.
It occurs when we face adverse (unpleasant) situations.
In life we would face situations that may challenge us to do better or situations
that may frustrate us.
When we are stressed the body produces two hormones : 1) cortisol ; and 2)
adrenaline. These hormones helps us to deal with threats ( stress and pressure).
Cortisol alerts you when your body is in danger,
Adrenaline- increases your heart rate and your blood flow.

3. Causes of Stress
❖ The death of a family member or a close friend
❖ Money problems - debt
❖ Unemployment - No job
❖ Issues on the job
❖ School pressures
❖ Exams
❖ Family problems
❖ Change in plans
❖ Relationships

4. Symptoms of Stress
What are some of the feelings you experience during stress?
❖ Irritable- annoyed, grumpy or angry
❖ Anxious
❖ Feeling low- Low self esteem
❖ Constant worrying
❖ Imagining the worst
❖ Racing thoughts
❖ Lack of concentration

5. Symptoms of Stress
❖ Keep going over things in your mind
❖ Short tempered/ easily tempered
❖ Not sociable
❖ Behaving clumsy
❖ Forgetting things
❖ Headaches
❖ Unhealthy eating

6. Symptoms of Stress
❖ Unable to relax
❖ Headaches
❖ Muscle Tension
❖ Problems with digestion
❖ Sweating
❖ Dizziness
❖ Dryness in the mouth

7. Personal Reflection: Do you know your stressors?
❖ What are some of the things that stresses me [you] out?
❖ Identify situations that may lead to stress

8. How Do We Cope With Stress?
First we need to recognise and acknowledge the things that are stressing out…
❖ This will help you to avoid certain situations. For example, if doing
assignment last minute stressors you out, then you should create a timetable
to help you stay on track.
❖ Journal how you feel- Write, write, write
❖ What were you doing when you started feeling stressed?
❖ What were your thoughts or emotions?
❖ How did you feel physically?

9. Coping With Stress
❖ What did you do when you felt stress?
❖ Talk to someone about your feelings- Counsellor, trusted friend, Parents,
Pastor, Principal, Teacher etc.
❖ Relax-
❖ How do you relax?
❖ Go walking
❖ Deep breathing exercises
❖ Swimming
❖ Listening to positive music

10. Coping with Stress
❖ Problem Solving activities and techniques
❖ Do not let the problem control you but try to take control of the situation in
a positive way.
❖ Eat healthy foods- Do not stress eat. Foods such as caffeine, coffee, Sodas
and sugar can increase stress levels.
❖ Sugary and caffeine foods can lead to adrenaline rush that can cause you to
become irritable and tired.
❖ Exercise constantly...

11. The End