Stress Management for Parents [insert presenter info]
Transcript of Stress Management for Parents [insert presenter info]
Stress Management for ParentsStress Management for Parents
[insert presenter info]
What is Stress?What is Stress?
Stress is a physical and psychological reaction to a situation that places pressure on an individual.
STRESSORSTRESSOR
Any life event which requires the person to adjust or adapt in some way
Sources of Stress for ParentsSources of Stress for Parents
Altered sleep patterns
New routines
Family visits
Separation
Finances/Child Care
Stress effects the body and mind.Stress effects the body and mind.
Common Reactions to StressCommon Reactions to Stress
Sleep Disturbances
Appetite Changes
Muscle Tension
Headaches
Neck and Back Problems
Fatigue
Anxiety
Common Reactions to StressCommon Reactions to Stress
Exaggerated Startle Response
Increased Irritability
Restlessness
Gastrointestinal Difficulties
Significant Mood Changes
Increased Blood Pressure
Frequent Urination
The impact of stress The impact of stress can be positive.can be positive.
The impact of stress can The impact of stress can also be negative.also be negative.
How do you cope How do you cope with stress?with stress?
Ineffective Ways of CopingIneffective Ways of Coping
Excessive Drinking/Substance Abuse
Excessive Eating
Excessive Smoking
Avoiding Problem Situation
Withdrawing from People
Fighting/Arguing
Procrastinating
Be AwareBe AwareRecognize when you are stressed
What are the symptoms of What are the symptoms of distress?distress?
What lets you know you are stressed out?
What is Your What is Your Optimal Stress Level?Optimal Stress Level?
Peak Performance
Normal Range ofStress
OverloadBurnout
UnderloadBoredom
Practice reducing stress through Practice reducing stress through your personal mental attitude.your personal mental attitude.
Laughter is Good MedicineLaughter is Good Medicine
Stress is tightening up
Laughter is lightening up
Learn to RELAXLearn to RELAX
Physical coping strategies…Physical coping strategies…
TOP 10 Stress Tips TOP 10 Stress Tips for New Parentsfor New Parents
Recognize you’re not alone
Don’t’ feel guilty
Accept help
Childcare
Make your health a priority
Postpone major decisions
Try to sleep when you can
Let some things go
Take only the advice you value
Get assistance from Army Community Get assistance from Army Community Services/Community Health Nurse or other Services/Community Health Nurse or other
professionals if needed.professionals if needed.
AcknowledgementsAcknowledgements
MAJ Karlotta Richards, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist
LTC Teresa Hall, Community Health Nurse, Directorate of Health Promotion and Wellness, US Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine