STRESS MANAGEMENT
“Stress is a condition in which the human system responds to changes in its normal balanced state.”
Types of Stress
Two main types of stress exist: developmental and situational.
- Developmental stress occurs as an individual progresses through the normal stages of growth and development.
- Situational stress is unpredictable and can occur at any time.
The human body responds to stress by releasing epinephrine, norepinephrine, and other hormones that increase the metabolic rate and protect the immune system.
You can use the following methods for the treatment of a Stress Patients.
Stress-Management Techniques
| Stress-Management Technique | Components |
|---|---|
| Relaxation | Rhythmic breathing, reduced muscle tension, altered state of consciousness |
| Meditation | Quiet surroundings, passive attitude, comfortable position, and a word or mental image on which to focus |
| Anticipatory guidance | Teaching to prepare the client for an unfamiliar or painful event; anticipatory socialization to prepare for a new role, such as parenthood |
| Guided imagery | Creation of a mental image, concentration on that image, decreased response to stimuli, such as painful stimuli |
| Biofeedback | Measurement device to measure mental control of the autonomic nervous system to control body responses, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and headaches |
| Progressive muscle relaxation | Tensing and releasing of muscles in sequence |
| Yoga | Combines rhythmic breathing and tensing and releasing of muscles |
Clients who are under stress experience more depression, require more anesthesia and analgesia, and have lower immune functioning than those who experience minimal or no stress.
Psychosocial stressors include trauma, accidents, lack of knowledge, fear, noise, uncertainty, and rapid changes in the world, which can include both real and perceived threats.
| Physical Symptoms | Psychological Symptoms |
|---|---|
| • Dry mouth • Tachycardia • Insomnia • Increased urinary frequency • Muscle tension or pain • Headaches • Loss of or excessive appetite • Gastrointestinal distress • Fatigue • Dizziness • Change in menstrual cycle | • Nightmares • Irritability • Depression • Disturbed behavior • Anxiety • Tearfulness • Inability to concentrate • Increased use of nicotine, alcohol, and drugs • Impulsive behavior • Disturbed behavior • Easily startled |
