Which of the following is the best way to handle job-related stress?

• A. Increase caffeine intake to stay alert and work longer hours
• B. Ignore the stress and hope it goes away on its own
• C. Engage in regular physical activity and practice relaxation techniques
• D. Avoid communicating with coworkers about your stress

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the nature of job-related stress, which is a psychological and physiological response to work demands that exceed an individual's coping resources.
2. Step 2: Recognize that effective stress management involves strategies that reduce the physiological arousal and improve emotional regulation, such as physical activity and relaxation techniques.
3. Step 3: Evaluate the options given: increasing caffeine can increase physiological arousal and may worsen stress; ignoring stress does not address the underlying causes; avoiding communication can lead to isolation and increased stress.
4. Step 4: Identify that engaging in regular physical activity helps reduce stress hormones and increases endorphins, while relaxation techniques (like deep breathing or meditation) help calm the nervous system.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best approach to handle job-related stress is to actively engage in healthy coping strategies such as physical exercise and relaxation, rather than avoidance or unhealthy stimulants.