Certificate in Managing Stress

Objectives
At the end of the course students will be able to:

• Understand the nature of stress
• Explore people’s responses to stress
• Develop an understanding of common stress symptoms
• Explore how people cope with stress
• Demonstrate stress management techniques
• Understand the role of relaxation
• Describe the benefits of nutrition and diet
• Understand the impact of self-esteem on stress
• Develop awareness of goal setting and time management techniques

Student Profile
This programme is designed for people who wish to develop a greater understanding of the nature, causes, symptoms and techniques for managing stress, at a personal and workplace level.

Study Method
The course is designed for study by distance learning at work or at home.  Students receive course manual, assignments and studyguide plus tutor support.

COURSE OUTLINE
Module 1: Understanding Stress
Defining stress
The causes of stress in terms of three personality types
The effects of stress in relation to physical, emotional and mental behaviour.

Module 2: The Stress Response
The concepts of stressor and stress response.
The concept of an holistic approach to a stress response.
The major components in the activation of the stress response.

Module 3: Symptoms of Stress
The physical, psychological and behavioural symptoms of stress
Stress indicator questionnaires
The physical and emotional warning signs of stress

Module 4: Understanding the Coping Process
Recognise coping responses to stress
Non-responding behaviours

Module 5: Managing Stress – Skills and Techniques
A ten point plan for dealing with stress

Module 6: Relaxation and Stress
A range of relaxation and stress relief measures

Module 7: Nutrition and Its Role in Managing Stress
A range of diet and nutritional behaviours which reduce stress
The links between nutrition and stress
The benefits of exercise in reducing stress
The role of sleep in reducing stress

Module 8: Self-Concept and Self-Esteem
The concept of self-esteem
Self-esteem and personal analysis
Composing personal development plan for improving self-esteem
 
Module 9: Goal Setting and Time Management
The importance of motivation in reducing stress
The process of goal-setting
Common effective time management techniques