“Let’s Talk” about Signs and Symptoms of Stress and Anxiety and ways we learn to Cope and Relax
“Let’s Talk” about KNOWING THE SIGNS OF STRESS
Knowing the signs of stress or anxiety is displayed in our abnormal behaviors, whether they are physically, emotionally, or cognitive responses (negative thoughts) that are all common signs of anxiety and stress. You may notice some of them after you learn about an infectious disease outbreak or a traumatic event.
“Let’s Talk” about YOUR BEHAVIOR
- An increase or decrease in your energy and activity levels
- An increase in your alcohol, tobacco use, or use of illegal drugs
- An increase in irritability, with outbursts of anger and frequent arguing
- Having trouble relaxing or sleeping
- Crying frequently
- Worrying excessively
- Wanting to be alone most of the time
- Blaming other people for everything
- Having difficulty communicating or listening
- Having difficulty giving or accepting help
- Inability to feel pleasure or have fun.
‘Let’s Talk” about KNOWING WHEN TO GET HELP
You may experience serious distress when you hear about an infectious disease outbreak or experienced a traumatic event. If you or someone you know shows signs of emotional stress that causes them to say things like “I don’t want to be here anymore” or “It would be better if I were dead” then it’s time to contact the The Office of Student Counseling
caskeyj@fvsu.edu or
Irwin.rutherford@fvsu.edu or if there is face time availability face time us at
Jacquelinecaskey@gmail.com or
Irwinrutherford@fvsu.edu or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at -1-800-273-8255 right away if you or someone you know threatens to hurt or kill himself- or herself or someone else, or even write about death, dying, or suicide and posting these messages on social media for all to see.
“Let’s Talk” about CHECKING IN WITH YOUR LOVED ONES OFTEN
Virtual communication can help you and your loved ones feel less lonely and isolated. Consider connecting with loved ones by:
- Telephone
- Mail
- Cards
- Text messages
- Video chat
- Social media
“Let’s Talk” about USE OF PRACTICAL WAYS TO RELAX:
- Relax your body often by doing things that work for you—take deep breaths, stretch, meditate, wash your face and hands, or engage in pleasurable hobbies.
- Pace yourself between stressful activities, and do a fun thing after a hard task.
- Use time off to relax—eat a good meals, read, listen to music, take a bath, or talk to family. Talk about your feelings to loved ones and friends often.
Take care of your physical health to help lower your stress. Take a break to focus on positive parts of your life, like connections with loved ones.
“Let’s Talk” about PAYING ATTENTION TO YOUR BODY, FEELINGS, AND SPIRIT:
- Recognize and heed early warning signs of stress.
- Recognize how your own past experiences affect your way of thinking and feeling about this event, and think of how you handled your thoughts, emotions, and behavior around past events.
- Know that feeling stressed, depressed, guilty, or angry is common after an event like an infectious disease outbreak or a traumatic event, even when it does not directly threaten you.
- Connect with others who may be experiencing stress to give them some positive advice. Talk about your feelings and whatever has triggered you to feel anxious and stressed. Share reliable health information, and enjoy conversation unrelated to the problem, remember to remind yourself of the many important and positive things in your lives.
- Take time to renew your spirit through meditation, prayer, or helping others in need.
