How to Deal With Acute Stress

Acute stress is entirely different from the day-to-day stress that everyone experiences. Acute stress occurs in response to a significant threat, challenge or fear. Common events that can lead to acute stress include a car wreck, job interview, test or conflict that evokes a fight-or-flight response. If not dealt with, acute stress can prevent you from dealing with the stressful situation appropriately.

Instructions

• 1

  Prepare for the stressor if possible. While you cannot possibly prepare for some acute stressors, such as being attacked by a dog, you can prepare for stressors that are planned. You are less likely to feel acutely stressed if you are well prepared for a job interview, test or public presentation.

• 2

  Breath deeply, from the diaphragm. A few deep, steady breaths will cause your body to release neurotransmitters that will calm you down.

• 3

  Close your eyes -- if it is safe to do so -- and visualize yourself handling the situation appropriately. For example, if you are taking a test, see yourself answering all the questions accurately and thoroughly.

• 4

  Tense your entire body as much as possible. Hold it for ten seconds, and then release the tension. Your muscles will feel much more relaxed than they were previously.

• 5

  Count slowly backward from ten before making any rash or emotional decisions while you are in the stressful situation.

• 6

  Seek medical help if you continue to be adversely affected after expsoure to an acutely stressful event. Witnessing violence, being attacked or receiving a serious injury are all events that cause immediate acute stress as well long-term psychological trauma.