Types Of Stress
Acute Stress – sudden, occasional, brief; you experience a sharp spike in your body’s reactions, but the experience does not stay with you for long, or the stressor disappears quickly. Example: a traffic jam or being late for an appointment.
Chronic Stress – ongoing; you may not notice it until you hit a physical, emotional, or psychological tipping point or threshold. Example: a stressful job or home environment.
Common Approaches To Cope With Stress
Reactive – an in-the-moment or immediate change in response to whatever has triggered your Stress. Reactive approaches involve changing your behaviour or mindset after the initial Stress.
Proactive – a pre-emptive or prescriptive attempt to avoid or minimize the potential for Stress. Proactive approaches also involve changing your behaviour or mindset, but before the occurrence of Stress, they give you a sense of control and security.
Here are some stress management techniques.
Stress Management Techniques
guided visualizations (audio recordings)
change the situation
biofeedback
group support
support from family/friends
peaceful/inspirational reading
relaxation response
time out
hire a professional
relaxing hobby or sport
self-hypnosis
good nutrition (for a robust nervous system)
regular exercise
breathing exercises
meditation practice
time management
simplify your life
comfortable, relaxing posture
massage/stretching/yoga
preparing more thoroughly
Challenge yourself to try one you haven’t used before for a stressor you are experiencing now. Embrace the change and see how it impacts your mental and physical experience of the stressful situation.
