5.1 Introduction to Health Psychology

Health Psychology

The study of how a person's physical health and wellness shape their behaviors and mental processes.

Holistic Perspective

An approach that considers behavior, coping strategies, stressors, psychological influences, and community engagement.

Prolonged Stress

A condition that weakens the body’s ability to fight off different diseases.

Chronic Stress

Long-lasting stress leading to hypertension, tension headaches, compromised immune systems, and migraines.

Eustress

Positive stress that motivates an individual to take on challenges or perform better at tasks.

Distress

Negative stress that overwhelms individuals and results in feelings of exhaustion.

PTSD

A mental health condition that occurs after witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event.

Adverse Childhood Experiences

Potentially traumatic events or chronic stressors occurring during a person's childhood.

General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS)

A model explaining how a person's body reacts to prolonged stress.

Alarm Reaction (GAS Stage 1)

The first stage where the stressor is perceived, causing a fight-or-flight-freeze response.

Resistance (GAS Stage 2)

The stage where the body attempts to adapt to the persistent stressor.

Exhaustion (GAS Stage 3)

The final stage where energy resources are depleted, possibly weakening the immune system.

Tend-And-Befriend Theory

The theory suggesting that under stress, some individuals are more likely to seek care and social support.

Tending

Nurturing care where an individual takes care of themselves and others.

Befriending

Seeking out others and providing support during stressful times.

Problem-focused Coping

Coping strategy where an individual views stress as a solvable problem and creates a plan.

Emotion-focused Coping

Coping strategy focused on managing emotional responses to stress rather than changing the stressor.

Deep Breathing

A technique involving slow, controlled breaths to reduce anxiety.

Meditation and Mindfulness

Practices aimed at focusing on the present moment.

Physical Activity or Artistic Expression

Activities that can boost mood and reduce tension.