Understanding Stress
Stress is a basic human survival mechanism left over from our primordial roots when we could best respond to perceived dangers by either fighting or fleeing. It is an important part of our biological system and can actually help improve your performance by providing a source of high energy and awareness. Too much stress for too long, however, can have long-term consequences including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, and mental health problems. Due to these factors, it is important to be able to identify stress and to have a plan for working with it in a healthy way.
If you think you may be stressed, you can take this stress check quiz to help identify if you truly are stressed.
Dealing With Stress
When you are stressed, it is important that you embrace the stress and understand why you are feeling that way. Health Psychologist, Kelly McGonigal, explains more about why you should embrace stress in her TedTalk below.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by stress, here are a few relaxation tips that you can use to help manage it.
Guided Imagery Relaxation
Deep Breathing
Progressive Muscle Relaxation
If at any time you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed consider utilizing these on-campus resources:
- Health Services located on the ground floor of Maria Hall
- Center for Ministry and Service in Saint Joseph Hall Room 4