Solutions on Stress (SOS): programmes, packages and products for helping teenagers

Purpose – Recent research and media attention has highlighted soaring levels of stress among young people. As part of a programme of research based across a number of universities in London and the South-West of the UK (called WestFocus) a team of psychologists, social scientists and complementary practitioners have started to investigate this issue with the aim of introducing stress management interventions into the school environment. This paper aims to examine their findings.
Design/methodology/approach – This paper summarises the set up, progress, results and implications of a six-week stress management intervention piloted and evaluated with teenagers at school. The intervention aimed to provide a holistic approach to stress management teaching students both psychological techniques (such as cognitive behavioural therapy) and complementary therapy approaches (such as Indian head massage and aromatherapy).
Findings – Structured assessments and qualitative feedback taken at the beginning and end of the programme revealed that emotional well-being and self-esteem improved and perceived stress decreased for students. Initial stress levels were found to be high and to have a negative impact on school performance and social activity.
Practical implications – The nature and high levels of stress symptoms experienced by this group of young people have significant implications for the general well-being of young people and the design of products or services to help.
Originality/value – Relatively little is know about how stress levels affect the well-being and behaviour of young people including avenues for stress relief, methods of coping and the implications this may have for services, interventions or marketing. This paper aims to explore these issues.