Since we have now begun to understand the definition of stress as well as the causes we now ask ourselves, what can I do to control my stress?.
There have been many studies done on the management of stress. One group of researchers found out that many university students tended to gain weight their first year away from home. These students stated they overate in response to the many lifestyle changes and varying stresses of the university environment (Journal of College Student Personnel). This group of students was placed in stress management sessions. These sessions included overall stress assessment, assertiveness training, time management, exploration of stressful thoughts or belief systems, and life-style and stress reducers. The main focus of these sessions were a) how to manage stress by using things other than food and b) how to apply stress management principles to the amount of food you take in. The majority of these students found better ways to manage or control their stress by using more healthful outlets, such as walking or taking up a sport. .
During the last twenty years disease prevention and health promotion have been found to be related to the development of healthy life-style behavior and the management of stress. The course entitled Psychology and the Management of Stress: Theory and Application (Personnel and Guidance Journal) has been set up to acquaint students with theory and research related to stress management techniques. It also provides guidance and information about diet, physical exercise, and other matters of a healthy life-style and provides an opportunity for students to learn and practice how to apply stress management to their present lives. Each course is developed around four dimensions. Two of these are, the influences of diet, physical exercise, and alcohol, drug, and cigarette use on stress and physical health, and principles related to effective time management.
