Stress & Coping Study Guide

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and concepts related to stress and coping, essential for nursing students preparing for their exams.

Stress

A physical, emotional, or psychological response when a demand exceeds the person’s ability to cope.

Stressor

Any event or stimulus that threatens equilibrium (homeostasis).

Stress Appraisal

How a person interprets a stressor — as a threat or a challenge.

Homeostasis

The body’s attempt to maintain a stable internal environment.

Allostasis

The process of restoring balance after stress; chronic stress increases 'allostatic load.'

Distress

Negative, overwhelming stress.

Eustress

Positive, motivating stress.

Fight-or-Flight Response

Activation of the sympathetic nervous system leading to physiological changes like increased heart rate and blood pressure.

General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS)

Three stages of stress response: Alarm, Resistance, and Exhaustion.

Alarm Stage

The initial response to stress involving sympathetic activation and cortisol release.

Resistance Stage

The stage where the body attempts to stabilize and repair itself.

Exhaustion Stage

The stage where resources are depleted, leading to decreased immunity and increased risk of illness.

Anxiety

A psychological response to stress that can vary in intensity from mild to panic.

Defense Mechanisms

Psychological strategies used to cope with stress or anxiety.

Denial

Refusing to accept reality.

Rationalization

Justifying actions or decisions with logical reasons.

Displacement

Shifting emotions from one target to a safer target.

Regression

Returning to earlier behavioral patterns under stress.

Projection

Attributing one's own feelings to someone else.

Reaction Formation

Acting in a manner opposite to one's true feelings.

Sublimation

Channeling negative emotions into a socially acceptable activity.

Compensation

Using strengths to make up for weaknesses.

Repression

Blocking out painful memories or experiences.

Compassion Fatigue

Emotional exhaustion from caring for others.

Burnout

A state of physical and emotional depletion.

Crisis Intervention

Short-term, immediate support after a crisis to restore equilibrium.

Complementary & Alternative Therapies

Methods like yoga and meditation that are effective for reducing stress.

Lifestyle Interventions

Strategies like nutrition and exercise that promote overall well-being.