1. In recent years the conviction has grown that it is how we cope with stress and not the stress one experiences that influences our psychological well-being - social functioning and health. 2. Coping is a dynamic situation-specific reaction to stress. 3. It is a set of concrete responses to stressful situations or events that are intended to resolve the problem and reduce stress. 4. Studies have revealed that health promoting behaviour like balanced diet - regular exercise - family support - etc. play an important role in good health. 5. The way we cope with stress often depends on rigid deep-seated beliefs - based on experience.