Unit 1: Emotions and Stress.(Brief Article)

Background Bonus

Stress is any physical or psychological stimulus that forces a person to respond. A growing body of evidence supports the theory that stress may have as much effect on health as diet or exercise. Stress can be negative--a natural disaster or a death in the family--or positive--winning an important game or being promoted.

Stress is unavoidable and widespread. Some experts estimate that as much as 85 percent of the absenteeism from jobs is stress-related. Since stress may be a factor in heart disease, some cancers, hypertension, depression, and lowered resistance to colds and infections, it is important that everyone learn to cope with it.

There are numerous ways of dealing with stress to prevent it from harming one's health. A strong social support system that includes family and friends is extremely important. Anticipating stressful situations is helpful. Other factors that greatly reduce the harmful effects of stress include exercise, healthful eating, sports and leisure activities, and conscious relaxation.

Unit Objectives

Students learn to

* recognize how emotions influence health, behavior, and other people;