The goal of the LESs Stress project was to contribute to better mental health and well-being of young people through nature therapy. Specifically, we aimed to create, test, and make accessible a concept for a two-day LESs Stress course, during which young people would learn simple and effective techniques to help them better manage stress and strengthen their resilience. Another goal was to develop a methodology for youth workers and teachers to improve the quality and professionalism of their work through the use of innovative approaches from the field of nature therapy. The project also aimed to promote an inclusive approach – to help young people for whom stress is a barrier in everyday life and to support their integration into society. An important objective was also to raise awareness of the importance of nature for mental health, thereby strengthening young people's relationship with environmental protection. In summary, we wanted to reduce the stress burden of young people, improve their mental well-being, and provide youth workers with concrete tools for effective work in this field.
The project LESs Stress – Nature Therapy as a Tool for Better Stress Management of Young People was submitted in response to the growing level of stress and the deteriorating mental well-being of young people. Research and the experience of partner organizations showed that excessive stress is a widespread problem among secondary school students, negatively affecting their health, relationships, and school performance. Many of them struggle with self-harm, anxiety, or addictions. The aim of the project was to provide young people with effective and simple tools to better cope with stress through nature therapy, which strengthens mental health, resilience, and connection with nature. The project also addressed the needs of youth workers and teachers who are looking for new approaches to support young people’s mental well-being. Our intention was to create, test, and make accessible a methodology for a two-day LESs Stress course, which can be used in practice and contributes to a more inclusive, healthier, and sustainable lifestyle for the young generation. The project fulfilled the objectives of the Erasmus+ Programme in the areas of inclusion, mental health, and innovation in non-formal education.