Which of the following is typically considered the first step in managing stress?

• A. Recognizing and identifying the sources of stress
• B. Seeking professional help
• C. Engaging in physical exercise
• D. Practicing relaxation techniques

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that managing stress effectively begins with awareness; before you can address stress, you need to know what is causing it.
2. Identify and recognize the specific sources or triggers of stress in your life, such as work pressure, relationships, or financial concerns.
3. Once the sources are identified, you can then consider appropriate strategies to manage or reduce stress, such as seeking professional help, exercising, or practicing relaxation techniques.
4. Recognizing stressors allows for targeted interventions rather than generic solutions, making stress management more effective.
5. Therefore, the first step is always to become aware of and clearly identify what is causing the stress before moving on to coping strategies.