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Exam Stress

WHAT IS STRESS?

Alarm reaction stage with the fight or flight response which is short
The initial shock, then cortisol levels decrease, BP, HR and breathing normalize, and the body remains on alert until the stressful event passes

Resistance stage is when stress is there for too long
The body continues to secrete stress hormones and the physiologic responses are elevated causing disturbances in concentration, reasoning, learning, memory, and decision- making and leaving one frustrated and irritable
Exhaustion stage is when stress seems to last forever
Fatigue, burnout, anxiety, depression, immune system weakens

HOW CAN YOU TELL IF YOU ARE STRESSED?

Irritability and anger: reacting out of proportion to minor things, constantly annoyed and argumentative with parents
Social withdrawal at school and home: isolating, keeping to themselves
Somatic symptoms: tired, headaches, stomachaches
Changes in Eating and sleeping: can decrease or increase
Changes in behaviour and attitude: acting out or doesn’t care
Decreased academic performance: everything feels like a big chore Can lead to panic, anxiety, depression or Substance use