Health and Wellness
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Subject: Physical Education Health Core
Class: SHS 2
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 3
Grade code: 2.1.3.LI.8
Strand code: 1
Sub-strand code: 3
Content standard code: 2.1.3.CS.1
Indicator code: 2.1.3.LI.8
Theme: Physical Activity and Health
Subtheme: Health and Wellness
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In Ghana today, SHS learners like you face many pressures. From preparing for the WASSCE and meeting family expectations to managing friendships and household chores, life can sometimes feel overwhelming. This feeling is known as stress. While some stress can motivate us, too much can negatively affect our health, our studies, and our overall happiness. This lesson will equip you with practical, effective strategies to understand, prevent, and manage stress, helping you to lead a healthier, more balanced, and successful life both in school and beyond.
What is Stress?
Stress is the body's natural response to any demand or threat. When you sense danger—whether it’s real or imagined—the body's defences kick into high gear in a rapid, automatic process known as the "fight-or-flight" reaction.
It's important to know that not all stress is bad. Eustress (Positive Stress): This is the good kind of stress that motivates you. It's the feeling of excitement you get before a football match or a debate competition. It sharpens your focus and helps you perform better. Distress (Negative Stress): This is the bad kind of stress that makes you feel overwhelmed, anxious, and tired. It's the feeling you get when you have too much homework, are worried about exams, or have a misunderstanding with a friend. Our focus today is on managing this type of stress.
Common Stressors for a Ghanaian SHS Student: Academic Pressure: Tests, assignments, mock exams, and the final WASSCE. Social Pressure: Fitting in with friends, dealing with peer pressure, and managing relationships. Family Expectations: Pressure from parents to get good grades or choose a certain career. Financial Worries: Concerns about school fees, pocket money, or the family's financial situation. Household Chores: Balancing demanding chores with academic work. Strategies for Preventing and Managing Stress