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Follow-up of stress-management courses
A W Sedgwick1, B Paul, D Plooij
1Institute for Fitness Research and Training, North Adelaide, SA.
The Medical Journal of Australia
|May 1, 1989
Summary
Stress-management courses significantly reduced perceived stress and improved coping skills long-term. These courses led to lifestyle changes, including less medication use and more relaxation.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Health Science
Background:
- Stress is a prevalent issue impacting well-being.
- Effective stress management techniques are crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term effectiveness of stress-management courses.
- To assess the persistence of learned coping skills and stress reduction.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 595 adults (mean age 45) evaluated stress-management courses.
- The course included relaxation, rational thinking, and assertiveness training.
- Perceived stress and coping skills were measured using the Paul stress inventory and questionnaires.
Main Results:
- A substantial reduction in perceived stress was observed immediately after the course and persisted long-term.
- Participants demonstrated satisfactory persistence in using learned coping skills.
- Decreased stress correlated with lifestyle changes, reduced medication use, and increased relaxation.
Conclusions:
- Stress-management courses offer lasting benefits for perceived stress and coping mechanisms.
- Learned skills and reduced stress can lead to positive lifestyle modifications.
- Further research is recommended to tailor courses for diverse Australian populations.