Preparing for Holiday Stress

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Preparing for Holiday Stress

• Presented by
• People Resources, Inc.
• Harriett Sinclair
• November 7, 2006

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Objectives

• Define stress
• Recognize sources of holiday stress
• Identify indicators of stress
• Learn stress reduction techniques
• Learn how to prevent holiday stress

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What is stress?

• Anything that stimulates you and increases your
  level of alertness
• Stress is usually perceived as pressure and
  strain with a sense of urgency attached

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What is stress management?

• Stress management is the ability to keep yourself
  at a level of stimulation that is healthy and
  enjoyable for you
• Life without stimulus would be incredibly boring
  and dull
• Life with too much stimulus becomes unpleasant
  and exhausting

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Sources of Stress

• Survival stress
• Internally generated stress
• Environmental and work-related stress
• Fatigue and overwork

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Indicators of Stress

• Physical
• Behavioral
• Emotional

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Physical Indicators of Stress

• Elevated pulse and blood pressure
• Cold hands and feet
• Sweaty palms
• Increased muscle tension (often, neck and
  shoulders)
• Upset stomach and/or change in appetite
• Restlessness
• Inability to remain focused

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Behavioral Indicators of Stress

• Decreased productivity and quality of job
  performance
• Tendency to make mistakes poor judgment
• Inability to concentrate on tasks
• Increased use of drugs and/or alcohol
• Loss of interest
• Lethargy
• Prone to accidents

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Emotional Indicators of Stress

• Anxiousness
• Irritability
• Loneliness
• Feelings of worthlessness
• Tendency to blame others
• Emotional outbursts and crying
• Hostile and aggressive behavior

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How Stress is Generated
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Stress Reduction Techniques

• Deskercise
• Create an action plan
• Anticipate and/or prepare by
• 1) Planning
• 2) Rehearsing
• 3) Avoiding known stressors

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Preventing Holiday Stress

• Create a routine
• Change events within your control
• Learn to say No (politely)
• Share responsibilities
• Eat foods that add to your energy level
• Limit caffeine (stimulant) intake

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Preventing Holiday Stress (Cont.)

• Exercise regularly
• Develop relaxation techniques
• Get adequate sleep
• Make major changes gradually
• Learn to FORGIVE and FORGET
• Remember to have fun!!!

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People ResourcesVital Tools For Employee Success.

• If you need help handling your holiday stress,
  were available 24/7 at
• 1-800-765-9124.