According to Seaward, the most effective anti-stress resource is

• A. faith.
• B. plenty of rest and relaxation.
• C. self-esteem.
• D. exercise and a healthy diet.

Answer: (C)

Self-esteem functions as a powerful buffer against stress because it shapes both how you interpret stressors and how you cope with them. When you have a solid sense of self-worth, you’re more likely to view challenges as manageable, trust in your ability to handle difficulties, and engage in active problem-solving rather than getting stuck in avoidance or rumination. This belief in your coping capacity supports persistence, encourages you to seek help when needed, and reduces the likelihood that stress will derail you. While faith, rest, and healthy habits can help, self-esteem underpins and enhances the use of those strategies, making it the strongest overall resource for dampening stress responses.