Family advocacy program launches stress management class Published Oct. 31, 2013 By Airman 1st Class Lauren-Taylor Levin 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- The Family Advocacy Program held a stress management class here Oct. 29 at the Airman and Family Readiness Center. The class, led by Daniel Francom, Family Advocacy Program outreach manager, gave participants an opportunity to learn about ways to manage stress in the arctic environment with tools and resources they can use to cope. "The class is a chance for Airmen to talk about stress they are dealing with, whether it's at work or if it's about life in Alaska," he said. "There are things everyone can do to handle stress better." According to health officials, stress is the body's response to events going on around an individual or team. It can sometimes be useful by providing quick reaction times or motivation to work harder. If stress occurs too often or lasts too long, it can have some bad effects. "Individuals who don't manage stress well can encounter sleeping problems, illness, headaches, stomach pain and depression," said Francom. He recommends Airmen learn to manage stress by talking to others, exercising, writing, or engaging in a hobby. "This class has really helped me learn about ways I can share with Airmen and their family members the resources available and in what ways they can better handle stress in their lives," said Brent Cupp, A&FRC family life counselor. Francom schedules the class quarterly, or by appointment. The class is free of charge and open to anyone possessing a Department of Defense identification card. "Think positively, plan and don't overwhelm yourself," he said. "It will help you in the long run." For more information about stress management or to schedule an appointment, call Francom at 377-3071.