Anna is an 18-year-old student in the medical assisting program at a community college. She lives alone in an off-campus apartment and is new to the city. She has her first clinical rotation coming up in a few days. She has a history of mild anxiety. She has been under a lot of stress lately and this week has been unable to eat, has a short attention span, and has been feeling extremely anxious about the upcoming clinical experience. She has never driven in the section of the city where the clinic is located and does not know anyone else in the rotation. Which of the following is true about how adults cope with stress?
a. Adults never have anxiety or stress about new situations.
b. Stress always results in the development of phobias.
c. It is easier to cope when they have a network of friends.
d. Medication is the only way to relieve stress in adults.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is: c. It is easier to cope when they have a network of friends.
Explanation:
Adults, like Anna, experience stress and anxiety, especially when they face new or unfamiliar situations. This is completely normal and part of the human experience. The statement “Adults never have anxiety or stress about new situations” is incorrect because stress and anxiety are common reactions to new or challenging situations, especially when there’s a lack of familiarity or support.
Stress does not always result in the development of phobias (option b). While stress can sometimes contribute to the development of anxiety disorders or phobias, this is not always the case. Many individuals experience stress and anxiety without developing long-term issues like phobias. In fact, stress can be managed and reduced through various coping mechanisms, such as mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and seeking social support.
The key to managing stress, especially in a new situation like Anna’s clinical rotation, lies in having a support system. Research has shown that having a network of friends or a strong support system helps individuals cope more effectively with stress. Support from others provides emotional reassurance, guidance, and practical help in navigating challenging situations. In Anna’s case, knowing someone in the rotation or having a trusted person to talk to could alleviate some of her anxiety about the new experience. A network of friends offers emotional stability and can provide shared experiences that help individuals feel more confident and less isolated.
Finally, while medication (option d) can be an effective treatment for certain types of anxiety, it is not the only solution. Many people manage stress through lifestyle changes, coping strategies, therapy, and social support, which can sometimes be more effective in addressing the root causes of stress and anxiety. Medication is often used in more severe cases, but it is not the only approach to relieving stress.