lisa schrader, mph, mches director of health promotion

How to Relax and Chill and Still be a Successful Student

Lisa Schrader, MPH, MCHESDirector of Health Promotion

What does stress look like?

Physical symptomsBehavioral symptomsMental symptomsEmotional symptoms

Stress Levels of MTSU Students

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16.5

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34.6

48.9

11.6

MalesFemales

What causes stress?

Is stress bad?

Stress and negative outcomes-1/3 of students reported that stress negatively

impacted their academic performance-90% of doctor’s visits are stress-related-Stress is related to:

DepressionDiabetesHair lossHeart diseaseObesitySexual dysfunctionUlcersCancer

Stress is actually neutral.

“Stress is the body’s physical response to a perceived demand or threat.”

Fight or flight (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqRoAXXQ6OU&feature=related)

Good Stress/ Bad Stress Performance Curve

What can we do about it?Do something about the stressorManage the symptoms

Deep breathingProgressive relaxationMeditationVisualizationMassageExerciseHumorHobbies

Long-term Stress ManagementThink positivelyDispute irrational beliefsBuild time management skillsPractice assertive communicationTalk things out with someoneEat wellBe physically activeSleepEliminate or reduce alcohol, tobacco, drug

use

Impact on SleepQuality vs. QuantityStages of sleep

REM- where we dream & where memories and learning are processed

Stage 4- deep sleepEffects of altered sleep

Too little REM- sleepiness, anxiety, irritabilityToo much REM- fatigue

Campus Resources: Counseling Services, KUC 326SHealth Services, REC

www.mtsu.edu/healthservicesHealth Promotion

615-494-8704 lisa.schrader@mtsu.eduwww.facebook.com/mthealthpromotion

Thank you!

Questions?