Final Project: Stress Management Workshop Presentation

Description of the Illness

Obesity is a disease whose prevalence has increased in the recent past. More than before, obesity cases are increasing in the US and other parts of the world. Obesity may simply be referred to as a medical condition in which excess body fat has accumulated the body. If not treated, obesity may have adverse effects on the health of a person. A body mass index (BMI) of over 25 is considered overweight, while that of over 30 is obese (Chan, 2017). Some of the factors that can increase the risk of obesity include age, sex, muscle mass and ethnicity. Obesity arises when one eats more calories than their bodies can burn during exercise and daily activity. When these calories accumulate in the body, they cause obesity. To address obesity, people are encouraged to eat healthy diets and also engage in regular physical exercises.

Population that is more vulnerable and one that is less vulnerable

Obesity is more vulnerable to some groups than others. Some of the at-risk groups include people who are aged 65 years and above (Cohen et al., 2007). The reason for this is that hormonal changes that occur as one age result to the accumulation of fat. When the fat accumulates to excess levels, one develops obesity. Additionally, aging is also linked to a decrease in the secretion of growth hormones and a decline in serum testosterone which causes obesity. It is also essential to note that aged people have limited physical activities and have a poor choice of diet. These factors lead to high chances of developing obesity.

Athletes are among people who are not at risk of getting obese. The reason for this is that such people burn their calories through their daily exercises. Besides, such people eat healthy diets in order to have a properly functioning body.

How Stress and Coping Might Differ Between These Populations

Stress is regarded as a major factor that leads to obesity. People who are obese usually experience stress-related symptoms. Not all people respond to stress in the same way. For instance, older people experience stress due to many factors such as unfulfilled goals and age-related crisis. Some of them regret some of the decision they either made or refused to make during their childhood. When such emotions encounter them, they get stressed, which increases the intensity of obesity.

Older people may also have some other underlying conditions such as heart diseases, hypertension and arthritis, which may be painful to them, and this becomes a source of stress for them (Chan, 2017). To cope with such stress, older people strive to maintain a social connection to get encouraged and proper company from others. They could spend time with their relations so that they can share their life struggles. This way, they can get relieved of stress and be able to lead normal lives.

On the other hand, athletes get stress from unachieved goals. For instance, the pressure to win and retain trophies may be a major source of stress for athletes. Besides, hindrances that may prevent them from participating in their sports may become a source of stress. Athletes cope with stress by practising relaxation, maintaining a positive perspective, and getting professional assistance. Maintaining a positive image means being able to handle defeat and win effectively.