Some Stress Makes You React Positively; Stress Can Give ✓ Solved

Some stress makes you react positively; stress can give

Some stress makes you react positively; stress can give runners the “edge” needed to make it through to the finish line. On the other hand, some stress can be harmful; it can increase the risk of developing health problems such as high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. For this reason, stress can be divided into either eustress (good) or distress (bad). What are some positive ways you deal with stress? What are some negative ways you deal with stress? Be sure to include at least one goal that discerns a new coping skill you will utilize to decrease stress and cope healthy in the future.

Paper For Above Instructions

Stress is an omnipresent aspect of human life that impacts physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It plays a crucial role in performance, particularly in scenarios requiring heightened focus and energy, such as athletic competitions. This paper explores the concept of stress in relation to positive and negative coping mechanisms, emphasizing the importance of identifying effective strategies to manage stressors in a healthy manner.

Understanding Eustress and Distress

Stress can be categorized into two primary types: eustress and distress. Eustress is often referred to as "good" stress. It is typically short-term, perceived as within our coping abilities, and can motivate individuals to reach their goals. For runners, a manageable level of stress can provide the adrenaline necessary to enhance performance, pushing them to achieve personal bests during races (Kabat-Zinn, 1990).

In contrast, distress refers to "bad" stress that exceeds our perceived abilities to cope. This type of stress can lead to anxiety, health complications, or diminished performance in various aspects of life. Chronic distress can result in negative psychological outcomes such as depression or anxiety disorders, alongside physical health issues like cardiovascular disease (Cohen et al., 2007).

Positive Coping Mechanisms

To counteract negative stress, it is crucial to develop effective coping strategies. Positive coping mechanisms offer healthier alternatives to managing stress, promoting emotional resilience and well-being. Some strategies that I have found highly beneficial include:

• Physical Activity: Engaging in regular exercise, such as running, has been fundamental for me. Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, often referred to as 'feel-good' hormones, and helps in reducing stress levels significantly (Craft & Perna, 2004).
• Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness aids in anchoring thoughts and promoting a sense of calmness. Research has shown that mindfulness meditation can lead to reductions in stress, anxiety, and depression (Kabat-Zinn, 1990).
• Social Support: Interacting with friends and family provides emotional support and helps buffer against stress. Sharing experiences and feelings can offer new perspectives and reduce feelings of isolation (Taylor, 2007).

Negative Coping Mechanisms

While there are many positive ways to cope with stress, it is equally important to recognize ineffective strategies that can exacerbate stress or lead to additional problems. Common negative coping mechanisms include:

• Substance Abuse: Using drugs, alcohol, or other substances as a means to temporarily escape from stress can lead to dependence and addiction, creating further health complications (Smith et al., 2004).
• Overeating: Some individuals may turn to food as a comfort during stressful times, leading to unhealthy weight gain and associated health risks (Van Strien, 2018).
• Procrastination: Avoiding tasks that cause stress often results in increased anxiety over time, causing a cycle of stress that can be hard to break (Sirois, 2014).

Setting Goals for Better Stress Management

Recognizing both the positive and negative ways I deal with stress is a critical step in improving my coping mechanisms. As I reflect on my current strategies, I have identified the need to incorporate better techniques into my routine and set a specific goal to diversify my coping skills.

My goal is to practice mindfulness meditation daily for 10 minutes. I plan to establish this goal by integrating it into my morning routine, allowing me to start my day with a calm mind and set a positive tone for potential stressors later in the day. Research indicates that even short periods of mindfulness practice can lead to significant improvements in mental health and stress reduction (Keng et al., 2011).

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the dual nature of stress—eustress and distress—is vital for effective stress management. Implementing positive coping mechanisms, such as physical activity, mindfulness, and social support, can significantly bolster resilience against stress. Conversely, recognizing and avoiding negative coping strategies is essential for maintaining overall well-being. With a specific goal of integrating mindfulness meditation into my daily routine, I am confident that I can enhance my ability to cope with stress healthily and positively.

References

• Cohen, S., Janicki-Deverts, D., & Miller, G. E. (2007). Psychological Stress and Disease. JAMA, 298(14), 1685–1687.
• Craft, L. L., & Perna, F. M. (2004). The Benefits of Exercise for the Clinically Depressed. Primary Care Companion to The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 6(3), 104–111.
• Kabat-Zinn, J. (1990). Full Catastrophe Living: Using the Wisdom of Your Body and Mind to Face Stress, Pain, and Illness. Dell Publishing.
• Keng, S. L., Smoski, M. J., & Robins, C. J. (2011). Effects of mindfulness on psychological health: A review of empirical studies. Clinical Psychology Review, 31(6), 1041-1056.
• Smith, J. P., et al. (2004). Stress and Substance Abuse. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
• Sirois, F. M. (2014). Procrastination and Health: A Review of the Evidence. Procrastination and Health, 14(4), 442–453.
• Taylor, S. E. (2007). Social Support: A Review. In H. S. Friedman (Ed.), The Oxford Handbook of Health Psychology. Oxford University Press.
• Van Strien, T. (2018). Causes of emotional eating and matched treatment of obesity. Current Diabetes Reports, 18(7), 1-10.