Coping With Stress

Question 1

Coping

Answer 1

Refers to the process of dealing with stress and can be done through the use of affective, biological, cognitive and behaviour strategies

The ability to reduce and eliminate stress efficiently and effectively is important and individuals well-being. The best Coping mechanism depends not only on the type of stress, but also situation factors such as the individual is unique personality and needs, and the environment of the stressor. Therefore, it is ideal to use a coping strategy to take into account range of these contextual factors, rather than using a one size fits all approach.

Question 2

Context-specific effectiveness

Answer 2

Context- specific effectiveness is when the coping strategy or mechanism used is appropriate for the demands of the stressor

Question 3

Coping flexibility

Answer 3

Coping flexibility refers to the ability to change coping strategies to best suit the changing demands of a stressor

This helps to reduce stress, as the strategies used more accurately target the stressor

Question 4

Benefits of exercise for stress reduction

Answer 4

Exercise -physical activity performed to improve or maintain ones health and wellbeing

•Physiological benefits of exercise

- releases beta-endorphins which help to improve ones mood and contribute to feelings of elation after exercise.
- may reduce the intensity of the sympathetic nervous-system responses to stress, thereby reducing immunosuppression
  - helps to improve the functioning of the cardiovascular system thereby improving the body’s reaction to future stressors

•Psychological benefits of exercise

- exercise can Provide a break or distraction from persistent stressors, reducing anxiety 
 - many sports can provide an opportunity for social engagement, serving as an outlet and release for stress.
  - can cause relaxation after “successful” energy is released

Question 5

Approach strategies

Answer 5

Approach strategies are coping mechanisms which involve directly confronting and working to reduce the source of stress. These strategies generally deal with stress in a practical way.
For example, studying for a sac directly deals with the stressor by equipping an individual with a knowledge and skills to successfully complete it.

• targeting the stressor
• making a plan and executing it
• making a list of ways to approach a stressor

Question 6

Avoidance strategies

Answer 6

Avoidance strategies are coping mechanisms which involve evading or distancing oneself from the source of stress. The strategies of them deal with more emotional component of stress, channel infills and behaviour away from the stressor.
For example, hanging out with friends as a distraction to not think about the sac.

• denial
• distraction
• wishful thinking
• substance use