Answer: A cognitive distortion is a thinking error. It is an illogical, inaccurate thought. Unfortunately, we often believe these thoughts to be the truth!

Answer: Worrying about a test that you already took can be unhealthy stress if you keep worrying! Worrying about something in the past, over and over, is creating a negative thinking cycle. Just worrying about something actually triggers a stress response, so when we worry about something that is actually over and done with, we are constantly triggering a stress response--with no end in sight! Relaxation Techniques can help stop the worrying.

Answer: All of the above are unhealthy coping strategies. They don't stop a stress response, and they don't solve a problem. In fact, they can create more problems! Relaxation Techniques are healthy coping strategies!

Answer: False. All animals (including humans!) experience survival stress. However, only humans can trigger a stress response simply by thinking about something in the past or future.

Answer: The opposite of the stress response.