Stress

    What is stress? 

[edit] Causes of stress

    How many different causes of stress can you think of?
    Can you think of any circumstances when leisure activities cause you stress? 

    Rate the following activities from 0 (no stress) to 10 (maximum stress):
        making a speech to less than 10 people.
        making a speech to over 50 people.
        preparing for an exam.
        Sitting an exam.
        Buying a cup of coffee.
        Striking up a conversation with a stranger.
        Taking a plane flight.
        Driving.
        Asking somebody to dance.
        Answering the phone.
        Asking somebody out on a first date.
        Trying to work out why your computer won't work.
        Speaking in English
        Attending a job interview. 
    Compare you scores with your partner or the rest of the class. Who is the most easily stressed? 

[edit] Symptoms of stress

    Do you know how to recognize stress in yourself? In other people?
    Many of us probably feel the typical symptoms of stress at some time or another. Isolated, they may not mean much, but together they may suggest a degree of stress. How often do you have the following symptoms:
        Feeling tired during the day.
        Sleeping badly.
        A painful stomach.
        Feeling nervous or worried about things in general.
        Feeling irritable or becoming angry more easily.
        Difficulty in concentrating. 

[edit] Treatment of stress

    What would you recommend to someone you know who is under stress?
    How do you think you could reduce stress or prevent stress in your life?
    Are there certain times of year when you feel more stress? When and why?
    Have you ever felt you were under a lot of stress? What did you do to overcome it?
    Which of the following do you think would be the best general advice?
        just wait for it to go away
        do sport
        have a massage
        go to the doctor for some sort of medication
        go to a psychologist to learn relaxation techniques
        Spend more time in the pub
        consider what is stressing you and take action to eliminate it (if you can).
        Something else 
    Some people "solve" their stress by compulsive buying. Have you ever gone on a shopping spree? Do you know anyone who has? What did you/they buy? Did it make you feel better? 

[edit] The positive side

    A certain level of stress can be positive. Can you think of any cases where stress can be useful or even necessary?
    Do you like being busy?