Book contents

Contents introduction

what is stresswise?
another book on stress
do you need teach yourself managing stress?
the three sides of stress
the story of frank
how to use this book

part one: stress check - self-assessment

part two: awareness of the stress concept

stress: a twenty-first century problem

facing a new type of threat?

what is stress?

stress can be good, bad and ugly
a definition of stress
distress
eustress

the stress response

why you need to learn about the stress response
what is the stress response?
on your marks
get set
go
your emotions are revealed in your blood chemistry
the power of the alarm response

signs of stress

linking the physiology of the stress response to the signs of stress
assessing your signs and symptoms
signs of distress
signs of eustress
the outward signs of hormone activity
recognizing stress in others as well as yourself

stress and health

some stress-related disorders and diseases
how the stress response can lead to ill health and death

stress and performance

the performance curve
the effect of stress on industry, commerce and the professions

sources of stress

the nature of the demands
Type A Behaviour
life events
family, social and work situations

part three: dealing with stress

personal stress management planning: preparation
improving coping ability

etting the right balance

altering demands

reducing demands
increasing demands

learning to relax

recharge your batteries
are you breathing correctly?
use biofeedback
progressive and deep muscular relaxation
meditation
the benefits of relaxation

lifestyle review

diet
caffeine
alcohol consumption
smoking
fitness and exercise
body weight
sleep and rest

modifying Type A Behaviour

how does Type A Behaviour arise?
unlearning Type A Behaviour

Improving personal life skills

increasing love and support
enhancing self-esteem
smiling, laughing and developing a sense of humour

your personal stress management plan

how to develop your stress management plan
how to evaluate and revise your stress management plan

appendix I: scoring and evaluation

appendix II: products and services available from stresswise

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