WCU Students report stress is the number one thing that interferes with school and grades (ACHA 2007)

What is stress? Stress is your reaction to change and the demands of your life. Each person interprets stress differently. The physical signs of stress you experience are your body's Fight or Flight response.

While putting those last minute touches on your paper the computer crashes.
How do you react?

Do you slam the computer shut and yell at your roommate?
Do you take a few deep breaths, gather your books, and head to the computer lab?

You can't control the unexpected but there are effective ways to manage your stress response.

Is stress good or bad? Stress is both good and bad. Good stress motivates you to get things done. Too much stress can cause you to shut down, snap at friends and family, and over time cause physical issues. Long term stress is linked to headaches, difficulty sleeping, and a weakened immune system.

How do I know if I am stressed? Stress occurs in 3 different ways: physiological, behavioral, and cognitive.

Physical Signs
(changes in your body)
Shallow, rapid breathing
Increased heart beat
Tightness in chest
Difficulty sleeping
Diarrhea
Indigestion/vomiting
Headaches
Loss of appetite/overeating

Behavioral Signs
(actions others can see
Acting impulsively
Irritability
Losing patience
Being careless or forgetful
Increased conflict with family and friends

Cognitive Signs
(your thoughts)
Difficulty concentrating
Distracted by worries
Self-defeating thoughts
Low self-esteem
Forgetfulness
Excessive worrying

What is your current stress level? Take this quiz to measure your stress level.

WCU Students report stress is the number one thing that interferes with school and grades (ACHA 2007)

You know you are stressed. Now what?