Existing School-based Programmes That Increase Young Peoples’ Capacity to Manage Stress: A Modified Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

This research presents the results of a systematic literature review, modified in size and scope from a traditional review, exploring programmes provided through schools in New Zealand and Australia that aimed to increase young people’s capacity to manage stress. While this review was being conducted, the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic was taking place, which reinforced the importance of addressing young people’s wellbeing. This review found several programmes that improved young people’s responses to stress and that could be adapted to classroom, outdoor, and online contexts. Interventions with promise included cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and outdoor programmes. Of those programmes that produced promising results, further research is warranted to confirm the efficacy of the interventions used in them.