Краткий конспект по пунктам 1) what it is and what causes it 2) how it affects our bodies 3) what stresses you out 4) what you do to relieve stress You're studying hard for your A-levels*, you've got a par. time job, your parents are in the middle of getting a divorce and you're worried that your best friend is mad at you. Basically, you feel like you're losing control! Sound familiar? Wl, you're not alone, because 92% of British teens feel stressed. So, as the pressure mounts in the run-up to exams, we thought we'd give you the lowdown on what stress is and does and, most importantly, what we can do about it! The lowdown on stress In a nutshell, "stress" is the way our bodies and minds react to life's changes. Not all stress is bad! In stressful situations, the nervous system causes muscles to tense, breathing to becom: shallow and adrenaline to be released into your bloodstream as your body gets ready to meet challenges with focus and strength. So, a little stress can keep you on your toes! But, in the long tem it can put too much strain on your heart and cause other physics it can put too much strain on your heart and Bat in ther phoe and emotional symptoms such as headaches, depression forgetfulness and low self-esteem. The good news, however is that YOU CAN deal with stress before it gets out of hand! so, tade control and REMEMBER YOUR A-B-Cs ... A is for ACTION You can take action when stress is created by something you can control If you have too many things to do, for example, try to break tasks down into smaller 'chunks', and deal with one thing at a time in order of priority. Perhaps it's just that you've taken on too much! If so, give up an after-school activity for a while, for example, or ask a friend or family member to help you lighten the load. B is for BEAR IT If there's nothing you can do, you'll just have to 'grin and bear it'! If, at first, you can't change your feelings, learn how to control your thoughts. When you feel overwhelmed, take slow, deep breaths and count to ten. Later, once you've calmed down, analyse the problem rationally. Perhaps you could repeat a saying to help you accept your situation, such as "One day I'l laugh about this". Also, try to keep things in perspective and don't be too dramatic! Saying that you're 'pulling your hair out o that your workload is killing you' will only make you feel worse. C is for COPE Find ways to handle your stress! For a start, doing something relaxing, such as going for a walk or for a coffee with a friend, vil help take your mind off the things that are bugging you. O perhaps writing poetry or keeping a diary will help you to deal with your negative emotions. Last but not least, getting enougn steep, exerising and eating regular, nutritious meals are al esota for coping with stress) Above all, try to keep a sense of humour and a positive attitude! You don't have to let your problems rule your life!