Understanding Stress Management
Stress management is a range of techniques used to cope with different stressful moments of human life. Zastrow & Hessenauer (2020) provided various methods, including stress management like relaxation. Deep breathing, muscle relaxation, and meditation allow you to reduce stress and become calmer. Moreover, social support should be significant in stress management, as friends and family might know what support is needed (Zastrow & Hessenauer, 2020). Communication with close people might help to feel needed and belong to someone.
Two Strategies for Managing Stress from Social Work with Groups
To help members of differing groups cope with their stress, it is important to encourage open communication and make sure that people express their feelings and know that they are listened to by their surroundings. Additionally, Crane et al. (2019) stated that individuals should have enough flexibility at work to build their unique plans for deadlines and other tasks. This practice can help to understand the responsibilities better and avoid overloading.
Implementing Stress Management Techniques in Group Sessions
To implement these strategies, it is crucial to hold briefings in the group and personal meetings with all colleagues. Communication helps workers understand others’ feelings and stay flexible in decision-making. However, to make workers less afraid of open communication, team leaders should not use aggressive behavior that demotivates others. Moreover, when the leader stays supportive, the environment inside the group becomes more supportive, allowing them to achieve the set goals.
Related Behavior and NASW Core Value
Self-care strongly correlates to stress management as emotional and physical conditions are connected. According to Zastrow and Hessenauer (2020), enough sleep, exercise, and healthy eating positively influence stress management. Therefore, self-care is one of the main behaviors individuals should take seriously. NASW values’ service’ management, which means helping others using specific knowledge and experience (NASW, n.d d.). People should support others to increase the quality of life of those they serve. This can help to get a sense of fulfillment and reduce stress.
References
Crane, M. F., Searle, B. J., & Kangas, M. (2019). How resilience is strengthened by exposure to stressors: The systematic self-reflection model of resilience strengthening. Anxiety, Stress & Coping, 32(1), 1-17. Web.
NASW (n. d.). Web.
Zastrow, C. H., & Hessenauer, S. L. (2020). Generalist social work practice: A worktext. Oxford University Press.