Stress Management for ParentsStress Management for Parents

[insert presenter info]

What is Stress?What is Stress?

Stress is a physical and psychological reaction to a situation that places pressure on an individual.

STRESSORSTRESSOR

Any life event which requires the person to adjust or adapt in some way

Sources of Stress for ParentsSources of Stress for Parents

Altered sleep patterns

New routines

Family visits

Separation

Finances/Child Care

Stress effects the body and mind.Stress effects the body and mind.

Common Reactions to StressCommon Reactions to Stress

Sleep Disturbances

Appetite Changes

Muscle Tension

Headaches

Neck and Back Problems

Fatigue

Anxiety

Common Reactions to StressCommon Reactions to Stress

Exaggerated Startle Response

Increased Irritability

Restlessness

Gastrointestinal Difficulties

Significant Mood Changes

Increased Blood Pressure

Frequent Urination

The impact of stress The impact of stress can be positive.can be positive.

The impact of stress can The impact of stress can also be negative.also be negative.

How do you cope How do you cope with stress?with stress?

Ineffective Ways of CopingIneffective Ways of Coping

Excessive Drinking/Substance Abuse

Excessive Eating

Excessive Smoking

Avoiding Problem Situation

Withdrawing from People

Fighting/Arguing

Procrastinating

Be AwareBe AwareRecognize when you are stressed

What are the symptoms of What are the symptoms of distress?distress?

What lets you know you are stressed out?

What is Your What is Your Optimal Stress Level?Optimal Stress Level?

Peak Performance

Normal Range ofStress

OverloadBurnout

UnderloadBoredom

Practice reducing stress through Practice reducing stress through your personal mental attitude.your personal mental attitude.

Laughter is Good MedicineLaughter is Good Medicine

Stress is tightening up

Laughter is lightening up

Learn to RELAXLearn to RELAX

Physical coping strategies…Physical coping strategies…

TOP 10 Stress Tips TOP 10 Stress Tips for New Parentsfor New Parents

Recognize you’re not alone

Don’t’ feel guilty

Accept help

Childcare

Make your health a priority

Postpone major decisions

Try to sleep when you can

Let some things go

Take only the advice you value

Get assistance from Army Community Get assistance from Army Community Services/Community Health Nurse or other Services/Community Health Nurse or other

professionals if needed.professionals if needed.

AcknowledgementsAcknowledgements

MAJ Karlotta Richards, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist

LTC Teresa Hall, Community Health Nurse, Directorate of Health Promotion and Wellness, US Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine