Which of the following actions best identifies a healthy short-term goal for dealing with stress?

• A. Taking a 10-minute walk to clear your mind after a stressful event
• B. Ignoring your feelings and hoping the stress will go away on its own
• C. Avoiding all social interactions until the stress disappears
• D. Consuming large amounts of caffeine to stay alert during stressful times

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand what constitutes a healthy short-term goal for managing stress. Healthy goals typically involve proactive, positive coping strategies that help reduce stress without causing harm or avoidance.
2. Step 2: Evaluate each option by considering whether it promotes emotional regulation and stress relief in a constructive way. For example, taking a short walk can help clear the mind and reduce physiological stress responses.
3. Step 3: Recognize that ignoring feelings or avoiding social interactions are avoidance strategies, which are generally unhealthy because they do not address the root cause of stress and can increase it over time.
4. Step 4: Consider the effects of consuming large amounts of caffeine. While it might temporarily increase alertness, it can also increase anxiety and disrupt sleep, which are counterproductive for stress management.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the action involving a brief walk is the healthiest short-term goal because it actively engages the individual in a positive behavior that helps manage stress effectively and immediately.