Project Information
Project Reference: 2023-3-CZ01-KA210-YOU-000182273
Status: Completed
Duration: May 1, 2024 – October 31, 2025
EU Grant: 60,000 EUR
Programme: Erasmus+
Action Type: Strategic Partnerships for Youth
Countries Involved: Czech Republic, Slovakia
Background
In recent years, stress and mental health challenges have become more common among young people. Many secondary school students experience anxiety, emotional pressure, and difficulties that affect their health, school performance, and relationships. The project “LESs Stress – Nature Therapy as a Tool for Better Stress Management of Young People” was created as a response to this growing problem. It aimed to offer young people simple and practical ways to cope with stress through contact with nature.
Objectives
The main goal of the project was to improve the mental well-being of young people by using nature therapy as a supportive tool. The project aimed to create and test a two-day course that helps participants learn practical stress management techniques and build emotional resilience. Another important objective was to provide youth workers and teachers with an innovative methodology they could use in their daily work. The project also promoted inclusion and encouraged a stronger connection between mental health and environmental awareness.
Implementation
The project started with a kickoff meeting where the partners defined the main tasks and prepared the research phase. Surveys and research activities were carried out among students from partner schools in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. The collected results were then used to design the content of the LESs Stress course. During the project, partner teams and experts in mental health and nature therapy met regularly to exchange ideas and develop the final educational approach.
Key Activities
One of the main activities was the development and testing of the two-day LESs Stress course for young people. The course included activities related to mindfulness, emotional balance, stress reduction, and connection with nature. After testing it with students, the methodology was adjusted based on their feedback. It was later adapted for teachers and youth workers and presented to educational professionals. The final results were shared during the Učení je IN conference, where schools and youth professionals learned about the project outcomes.
Results
The main result of the project was a complete and tested methodology for a two-day nature therapy course. This material includes practical exercises and guidance that can be used by organisations working with young people across Europe. Around 60 students tested the tools directly, while about 30 teachers took part in pilot presentations and around 100 education professionals learned about the project during the final conference. The methodology was also translated and shared more widely to increase its accessibility and use.
Impact
The project had a positive impact on both young people and professionals working with them. Students gained practical tools to better understand and manage stress in everyday life. Teachers and youth workers improved their competences in supporting mental health through innovative and non-formal methods. The cooperation between the Czech and Slovak partners also strengthened international exchange and professional learning. Overall, the project showed that nature can be a valuable and accessible resource for improving youth well-being and building healthier lifestyles.
