Psychological Aspects of Stress

Physiological and psychological stress responses, stress models, effects on health and cognition, and evidence-based stress management techniques across different contexts.

Level
intermediate
Languages
en → en
Cards
48
Markdown
Psychological Aspects of Stress (.md)

Flashcards (48)

#Front (Term / Question)Back (Definition / Answer)ExampleMultiple-Choice Options
1What are some effective relaxation techniques?Effective relaxation techniques include deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery.
2What is the Yerkes-Dodson Law?The Yerkes-Dodson Law states that there is an optimal level of arousal for performance, with too little or too much arousal leading to poor performance.
3How can art and creativity help in managing stress?Engaging in art and creative activities can provide an emotional outlet and promote relaxation.
4How does laughter affect stress levels?Laughter can lower stress hormones, enhance mood, and promote relaxation.
5What is the significance of self-care in managing stress?Self-care practices are essential for maintaining mental and physical health, helping to mitigate stress.
6What is the difference between eustress and distress?Eustress is positive stress that can motivate and enhance performance, while distress is negative stress that can lead to anxiety and health problems.
7How can pets help reduce stress?Pets can provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness, and promote physical activity, all of which can lower stress.
8What is the relationship between stress and immune function?Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to illness.
9What is the role of nutrition in managing stress?Proper nutrition can support overall health and resilience to stress, while poor nutrition can exacerbate stress responses.
10What is stress appraisal?Stress appraisal is the process of evaluating a situation to determine whether it is a threat and how to cope with it.
11What occurs in the resistance stage of GAS?In the resistance stage, the body attempts to adapt to the stressor while maintaining homeostasis.
12How does mindfulness meditation help with stress?Mindfulness meditation helps reduce stress by promoting awareness and acceptance of the present moment.
13How does time management relate to stress?Effective time management can reduce stress by helping individuals prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
14What is the relaxation response?The relaxation response is a state of deep rest that can counteract the stress response, promoting relaxation and reducing tension.
15What are the two types of stress appraisal?The two types of stress appraisal are primary appraisal (evaluating the threat) and secondary appraisal (assessing coping resources).
16How can mindfulness practices be integrated into daily life?Mindfulness practices can be integrated through meditation, mindful breathing, and being present in daily activities.
17What is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)?CBT is a therapeutic approach that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors related to stress.
18How can sleep affect stress levels?Adequate sleep is crucial for stress management; lack of sleep can increase stress sensitivity and impair coping abilities.
19What is the role of social support in stress management?Social support can buffer the effects of stress by providing emotional, informational, and practical assistance.
20What is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?PTSD is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, characterized by flashbacks, avoidance, and hyperarousal.
21What is the importance of seeking professional help for stress?Professional help can provide tailored strategies and support for managing stress effectively.
22What is resilience in the context of stress?Resilience is the ability to adapt and recover from stress and adversity.
23How does stress affect cognitive function?Stress can impair memory, attention, and decision-making abilities.
24What are common psychological symptoms of stress?Common psychological symptoms include anxiety, irritability, depression, and difficulty concentrating.
25What is stress?Stress is a psychological and physical response to perceived challenges or threats.
26What is the role of humor in stress management?Humor can provide relief from stress by promoting relaxation and improving mood.
27What is the impact of workplace stress on employees?Workplace stress can lead to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and higher turnover rates.
28What happens during the alarm stage of GAS?During the alarm stage, the body recognizes a threat and initiates the fight-or-flight response.
29What are common coping strategies for stress?Common coping strategies include problem-solving, seeking social support, and engaging in leisure activities.
30What are some characteristics of resilient individuals?Resilient individuals often exhibit optimism, flexibility, strong problem-solving skills, and social support networks.
31What are the physiological responses to stress?Physiological responses include increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and the release of stress hormones like cortisol.
32What is the role of gratitude in stress reduction?Practicing gratitude can shift focus from stressors to positive aspects of life, enhancing overall well-being.
33What is the impact of exercise on stress?Exercise can reduce stress by releasing endorphins, improving mood, and providing a distraction from stressors.
34What are some evidence-based stress management techniques?Techniques include mindfulness meditation, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exercise, and relaxation techniques.
35What is the impact of chronic stress on the brain?Chronic stress can lead to structural changes in the brain, affecting areas involved in memory and emotional regulation.
36What is the difference between problem-focused and emotion-focused coping?Problem-focused coping aims to address the source of stress, while emotion-focused coping aims to manage emotional responses to stress.
37What is the impact of chronic stress on physical health?Chronic stress can contribute to various health issues, including heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.
38What is acute stress?Acute stress is a short-term response to an immediate threat or challenge.
39What are the effects of prolonged stress on health?Prolonged stress can lead to health issues such as anxiety, depression, cardiovascular disease, and weakened immune function.
40What is the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS)?GAS is a three-stage model of stress response: alarm, resistance, and exhaustion.
41What is the fight-or-flight response?The fight-or-flight response is an automatic physiological reaction to perceived danger, preparing the body to either confront or flee from the threat.
42What role does cortisol play in stress?Cortisol is a hormone released during stress that helps regulate metabolism, immune response, and blood pressure.
43What is chronic stress?Chronic stress is a long-term response to ongoing challenges or pressures.
44What is the impact of nature on stress levels?Spending time in nature can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being.
45What is the importance of setting boundaries for stress management?Setting boundaries helps individuals manage their time and energy, reducing stress from overcommitment.
46What are some signs of burnout?Signs of burnout include emotional exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced professional efficacy.
47What is the role of positive thinking in stress management?Positive thinking can help individuals reframe stressors and enhance coping strategies.
48What are the two main types of stress?The two main types of stress are acute stress and chronic stress.