Introduction Write quote on board So today we

Introduction (Write quote on board) • So today we are going to jump right in and talk about problem solving. • Life is full of problems (big, small, and EVERYONE experiences them) • These problems can cause a lot of stress and difficulties for people – Rubber band example

Rubber band example • Hold band between two thumbs – When left slack = a restful state such as sleep – Pulled to a comfortable stress = regular working day/functioning day • Ultimately return back to relaxed state – Pulled out and overstretched it is a warning sign to return back to a comfortable position • 2 options: overstretch until it breaks OR return to relaxed state – Even though you are experiencing many stressful difficulties you can adjust to the challenges

Research • Research has demonstrated that those better at adapting to stressful events by solving difficult problems are less likely to experience depression, have a better quality of life, and have an overall enhanced physical well-being. – Look for opportunities for growth – Have self-confidence in ability to tackle stressful situations – React to problems in a thoughtful/planned manner

GOOD NEWS!! • These are all skills! And can be learned! • People successful at coping with stressful difficulties are said to have a positive orientation toward problems and living, and engage in planful problem-solving styles

Positive Problem orientation involves… • Viewing problem and negative emotional reactions as a challenge rather than a threat • Being realistically optimistic and believing that problems are solvable • Believing that problems take persistence and effort /committing self to tackling them/having confidence to do so

On the other hand… • Ineffective problem solvers tend to have a negative orientation towards problems in living. • View problems as threats to well-being • Doubt ability to cope with problem • Become overwhelmed with emotional distress when confronted (snapping of rubber band)

Planful problem solving • To be an effective problem solver involves more than positive framework… • You need an thoughtful/systematic way of dealing with problems. • Set realistic goals/determine obstacles • Creative thinking for solutions • Compare pros/cons • Carry out the solution as best as possible

Unfortunately we do not all have this innate ability… • Many people with ineffective problem solving skills tend to have either: • impulsive/careless problem solving style – Search for quick fix – Narrow vision of problem – Careless • avoidant style – procrastinate/Passive/rely on others to resolve/deny existence of problem

What kind of problem solver are you? ? • Positive? Negative? Planful? Impulsive? • Think about the orientations (pos/neg) and which describes you best. • HANDOUT (ONLY FIRST/example from group) —Think about a recent problem you experienced. Are you correct in your thinking?

Even if you have great problem solving skills • Putting them to work when trying to cope with stress can be difficult – Common barriers include: • Negative feelings (sadness, guilt, anxiety) – Interferes with ability to identify effective coping • Negative thinking (focus on the bad) – Little room for constructive thinking • Hopelessness – Reduces motivation to improve situation Good news is that there are ways to learn to be effective in spite of these obstacles!!

S. S. T. A • Stop: notice your feelings when facing problem • Slow down: give brain/body chance to lower insenstity of arrousal • Think: use planful problem solving skills to cope • Act: put your problem solving ideas into action!

How can I STOP/SLOW DOWN? • Becoming more aware of reactions to stress – Feelings, thoughts, physical responses, changes in behavior • Becoming aware of unique triggers

Strategies to slow down • • • Counting Deep breathing Visualization Fake smiling Exercise Meditation • WHAT ARE THE CLASSES METHODS…knowing this can help you work towards effective problem solving

Think and Act • The last 2 steps involve planful problem solving—that is thinking creatively of a plan that will help you solve your problem

Planful problem solving • Is a powerful means of helping individuals reach their goals • 4 steps: – Define the problem and set realistic goals – Generate alternative solutions – Decide which are best – Carry out the solution/determine if it worked – HANDOUT (Use same problem from before/work with class on board S. S. T. A)