Stress

The term "stress" is often misunderstood. It is generally recognized that appropriate stress motivates one to achieve goals. This type of stress, called eustress, is essential for growth and change. The type of stress we generally hear about is called distress. This is a reaction to pressure, either internal or external, that affects one's mood, physical well-being, and self-esteem. Typically, no single event must lead to stress. Rather, it is an accumulation of events over a period of time. However, the individual's perception of the event also must be considered. What is distressful for one, may not be for another.

We see many students, faculty, and staff who are experiencing varying levels of distress. People who experience high levels of distress do not all endorse the same symptoms. The following statements represent some common thoughts and feelings associated with too much distress.

1	I have a number of conflicting demands. To complete one task, sometimes, I must slack off on another.	True	False
2	I often forget or miss important deadlines.	True	False
3	I often make poor decisions or am indecisive about even simple things.	True	False
4	I feel so tired during the day, I sometimes don't know how I'll get through it.	True	False
5	I find myself either overeating or eating too little.	True	False
6	I spend a lot of time playing on the computer or watching TV.	True	False
7	I find it difficult to concentrate in class or complete assignments.	True	False
8	I can't seem to relax unless I drink or use drugs.	True	False
9	I seem to have a lot of physical problems (e.g., headaches, muscle pain, stomach problems.)	True	False
10	I often feel out of control and unable to handle my emotions.	True	False
11	I usually do two things at once (eating and studying, reading and watching TV.)	True	False
12	I know I'm supposed to be enjoying life and participating in activities that are stress-reducing, but I just don't have the time.	True	False
13	There have been a number of major changes in my life over the past year (starting school, death in the family, marriage.)	True	False
14	I have recently had problems getting along with family and friends.	True	False
15	I'm involved in a number of social activities and seem to have little time for school or job duties.	True	False

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Psychological and Counseling Center | Vanderbilt University
Box 7707, Station B | Nashville, TN 37235-7707
615.322.2571 | (fax) 615.322.1326