human
Write a summary that discusses stress levels and stress management methods.
assistant
The text discusses stress levels and stress management methods. It also provides information about cognitive and affective objectives related to stress.
human
Write a essay that discusses stress levels and stress management methods. Exapnd on the summary above.
assistant
##Cognitive and affective objectives related to stress
When speaking about stress levels and the methods, which seem to be important to cope with a state of emotional strain and tension, it is necessary to consider some basic points concerning a negative psychological reaction. So, the objectives, which are related to the task, can be divided into cognitive objectives and affective ones. Thus, cognitive objectives include identifying the meaning of stress, as well as the causes of a negative emotional strain. Stress management is also considered to be one of the cognitive aims. On the other hand, an effective objective is related to the importance of stress control.
##The fundamentals of stress
When discussing stress levels, one is to keep in mind that stress is considered to be “a negative emotional experience accompanied by predictable biochemical changes, physiological changes, cognitive changes, and behavioural changes” (Taylor, n. d., p. 1). Generally, there is a need to point out that stress is caused by numerous reasons, which most widespread seem to be stressful situations, which are difficult to control (for instance, too complicated relations, serious health problems, etc.), persistent stress, which is caused by certain traumatic events, and acute stress, which is caused by sudden unpleasant situations. Of course, nobody will deny the fact that people’s responses to stress seem to be different. Such responses depend upon personality traits, genetic factors, regulated immune diseases, and the quality of stressors.
Stress management is associated with a significant skill, which gives people an opportunity to solve problems and control the impact of stress on the quality of their lives.
I have examined my own stress level on the basis of Dr Thomas H. Holmes’ and Dr Richard H. Rahe’s rating scale; my score was 556. According to the online stress test results, the rate of minor stress should be 150, mild stress 150-199, moderate stress 200-299, and major stress 300+ (“Online Stress Test”, n. d., para. 4). So, taking into account my own results, I can make a conclusion that the stressful events, which take place in my life, must be controlled.
As far as people treat stress differently, I have also decided to measure my perception of stress. So, I have decided to rely on “the most widely used psychological instrument for measuring the perception of stress – The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS)” (“Perceived Stress Scale,” n. d., 1). The scores range from 0 to 40. My own score was 15. So, the stress I experience seems to be rather moderate. In my opinion, some useful strategies should be used to reduce the level and perception of stress.
The most common methods, which are to be used to cope with stress, can include various relaxation practices and meditation skills. On the other hand, it is necessary to communicate with pleasant people, to protect personal space, to think positively, to be open to new things and experiences, to strive for a healthy life-style, to try to overcome the obstacles, but not to avoid them.
##Conclusion
Stress is considered to be a negative psychological experience, which influences people’s quality of life. When persons are stressed, they cannot cope with various tasks, as well as enjoy daily activities. For this reason, it is necessary to limit the impact of stress on people’s life. There are many useful practices, which can be used to control stressful situations.