STRESS

Stress is a natural part of life. Expressions such as “I am stressed out”, “I am under too much stress” are familiar. Stress is often accompanied by the feeling of” being out of control”.

Stress can be both positive and negative.  Good stress is like fuel in a car, but flood the engine and the car STOPS, flood the body with stress and the body STOPS. Too much stress becomes distress. Positive stress is a healthy kind of stress, because it motivates us in our daily life and gives us positive feelings of fulfillment and enthusiasm.

Stress can be harmful when it impacts on both physical and mental health. When a person is constantly reacting to stressful situations without managing it, it can threaten their health and well-being. This can result in physical, emotional and behavioural difficulties which impact on your health, vitality, peace of mind as well as personal and other relationships.

Typical stresses in adolescents

·        Biological and physical changes

·        Moving from dependency on parents and carers to independence

·        Subject and college and career choices

·        Developing personal identity and forming new relationships

Further Information

Help Guide Org - guide to mental health and well-being www.helpguide.org

Stress Management www.mayoclinic.org

Mind Tools www.mindtools.com

Stress Anxiety and Depression

www.nhs.uk/conditions/stress-anxiety-depression

Good Think - the goal of good think is to make you happier
www.goodthink.com

A movement for wellbeing
www.alustforlife.com

Free Booklets on Stress and Anxiety
www.mentalhealthireland.ie