Stress is the human body’s reaction to harmful situations. When this happens, a chemical is sent through your body which allows you to act in a way to prevent injury. This is known as “the fight or flight response” or the main stress response. Throughout high school, and along with everyday life, stress is a very common factor. Whether it is good stress or bad stress, the human body needs stress to function properly. Even though most people get to see the negative side of stress more often than the positive side.

Examples of distress (negative stress) are failing a test, having a lot of work to do, etc. Examples of eustress (positive stress) is getting accepted into your favorite college but having to move away from family, etc. Stress that goes unchecked can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and diabetes. Stress is caused by situations and pressures that are also known as stressors. Although stress really takes a toll on the human body physically, mentally, and emotionally, there are ways to help deal with stress. Avoiding alcohol, nicotine, drugs, and caffeine could help avoid stress. Along with getting more sleep, managing time better, and trying relaxation techniques/exercises.

Middle school/high school physical education and health teacher, Mrs. Hulett, teaches students the main causes of stress, how to prevent it, what goes on inside your body while stressed, the major signs of stress, and everything students need to know about stress as a whole.  She teaches students many ways to cope with the stress of everyday life and academic stress as well.