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Understanding stress and its signs
This SEL video introduces stress, explaining what it is and how it can affect the body and emotions. It explores stress as a natural response to challenge or uncertainty and explains the difference between positive stress (which can be motivating) and negative stress (which can feel overwhelming).
The video helps students recognise common sources of stress and understand what happens in the brain and body when stress occurs, including the release of stress hormones and the fight, flight or freeze response. It highlights physical signs such as headaches, tiredness and a fast heartbeat, as well as emotional signs like irritability and anxiety.
Students are encouraged to notice how stress feels in their own bodies and to involve parents and carers through activities that reinforce learning at home.
