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Meeting Life Challenges
How does stress affect the immune system?
Stress can cause illness by impairing the workings of the immune system. The immune system guards the body against attackers, both from within and outside. The white blood cells (leucocytes) within the immune system identify and destroy foreign bodies (antigens) such as viruses. It also leads to the production of antibodies. There are several kinds of white blood cells or leucocytes within the immune system, including T cells, B cells and natural killer cells. T cells destroy invaders, and T-helper cells increase immunological activity. It is these T-helper cells that are attacked by the Human Immuno Deficiency Virus (HIV), the virus causing Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). B cells produce antibodies. Natural killer cells are involved in the fight against both viruses and tumours.
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Describe the GAS model and illustrate the relevance of this model with the help of an example.
Enumerate the different ways of coping with stress.
Explain the effect of stress on psychological functioning.
Describe how life skills can help meet life's challenges.
Discuss the factors that lead to positive health and well-being.
How does stress affect the immune system?
Give an example of a life event which is likely to be stressful. Suggest reasons why it is likely to cause different degrees of stress to the person experiencing it.
Given what you know about coping strategies, what suggestions would you give to your friends to avoid stress in their everyday lives.
Reflect on the environmental factors that have —
(a) a positive impact on the being and (b) a negative effect.
We know that certain life-style factors can cause stress and may lead to diseases like cancer and coronary heart disease, yet we are unable to change our behaviour. Explain why?
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