Q.Given what you know about coping strategies, what suggestions would you give to your friends to avoid stress in their everyday lives.

I would advise friends to use both problem-focused and emotion-focused coping. Practical suggestions: use task-oriented coping, gather information and act directly (plan a study timetable, set priorities); reassess distorted thinking through rational and positive thinking; practise time management and assertiveness; use relaxation, meditation, exercise and deep breathing to release arousal; keep a balanced diet and good sleep (self-care); and seek social support by discussing worries with friends and family. Avoid relying only on avoidance habits like procrastination, and reappraise th …

Based on coping strategies and stress-management techniques in the chapter, here are suggestions I would give my friends:

Cope directly with problems (task/problem-focused)

• Use a task-oriented strategy: gather information about the stressful situation, weigh alternative courses of action, set priorities, and act directly, e.g. schedule your time better, make a plan of action and follow it, or recall how you solved similar problems before. Research shows people cope best when they attack the problem itself.

Change the way you think (life skills)

• Practise rational thinking: challenge distorted thinking and irrational beliefs and drive out intrusive negative thoughts, replacing them with positive statements.
• Cultivate positive thinking and optimism, expecting that adversity can be handled.
• Use time management to spend time on what you value, and assertiveness to say no and express your needs.

Manage the body's arousal (stress-management techniques)

• Use relaxation techniques and deep, stomach-centred breathing to calm the body.
• Try meditation and creative visualisation to refocus attention.
• Take regular exercise (yogic asanas or aerobic activity), which is an active outlet for physiological arousal and a stress buffer.

Look after yourself (self-care)

• Eat a balanced diet with three proper meals, get enough sleep, and keep yourself fit and relaxed. Avoid unhealthy 'comfort foods', excess caffeine, cigarettes and alcohol.

Lean on others (social support) …