The How Your Body Responds To Stress information handout visually describes the most common physiological responses to stress.
Offers theory, guidance, and prompts for mental health professionals. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
Includes client-friendly guidance. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
An editable Microsoft PowerPoint version of the resource.
Many clients find it easier to connect with the concept of ‘stress’ rather than ‘threat,’ as stress is often a more familiar and relatable experience in their daily lives. The handout titled How Your Body Responds to Stress offers a detailed visual representation of the most common physiological responses that occur when an individual experiences stress.
Understanding the physiological responses to stress is often important for clients. This resource provides:
Addressing physiological symptoms of anxiety.
Exploring physical responses to situational pressure.
Understanding bodily sensations during panic attacks.
Introduce the resource as psychoeducation handout.
Explore the client's experiences and make links with the handout content.
Reflect on the implications of the information.
The sympathetic nervous system is activated in response to stimuli processed as threatening. It controls ‘fight or flight’ responses which, when activated to a high degree, can result in powerful body sensations. At a lower level of intensity the same physiological system responds to stress. Many clients identify with the concept of ‘stress’ more readily than ‘threat’ and the How Your Body Responds To Stress information handout visually describes the most common physiological responses to stress.
Sapolsky, R. M. (2004). Why zebras don’t get ulcers. Holt paperbacks.
