Methods of Modifying this Behaviour
Methods of Modifying this Behaviour
Cognitive-Behavioural Stress Management Techniques
- Cognitive-behavioural stress management techniques work by helping individuals change their thinking patterns related to stressors and their coping skills.
- They involve identifying sources of stress, recognising any unhelpful thought patterns, and then developing new, healthier coping strategies.
- A common approach is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which consists of techniques like cognitive reframing and exposure therapy.
- Cognitive reframing is used to help individuals challenge and change harmful thoughts or beliefs.
- Exposure therapy aims to reduce the fear and anxiety responses to stressors by exposing the individual to the stressor in a controlled environment.
Pharmacological Interventions
- Pharmacological interventions can be used to manage the physiological symptoms of chronic stress.
- Commonly prescribed drugs include Benzodiazepines, Beta Blockers, and Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs).
- Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam, reduce the activity of the nervous system, causing a decrease in anxiety.
- Beta Blockers can reduce physical symptoms of stress like high heart rate and blood pressure.
- SSRIs, such as Prozac, balance serotonin levels in the brain to regulate mood and reduce anxiety.
- However, these interventions come with potential side effects and dependancies, and don’t address the underlying causes of stress.
Mindfulness and Meditation
- Techniques such as mindfulness and meditation are often used as stress management methods.
- Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) emphasises paying attention to one’s thoughts and emotions without judgement.
- Meditation allows individuals to focus their mind and eliminate the stream of thoughts that may be crowding their mind and causing stress.
- Regular practice of these techniques can lead to improved emotional and physical well-being, and increased resilience to stress.
Physical Activity and Stress Management
- Regular physical activity and exercise can act as effective stress management strategies.
- Physical activity increases the production of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters.
- It also promotes better sleep, which in turn can reduce stress.
- Physical activity often provides a distraction from stressful thoughts and can help improve self-esteem and mood.