Author: Stacey Potts
Planning Unit: Daviess County CES
Major Program: Health
Plan of Work: Fostering Life Skills Education in Youth and Families
Outcome: Initial Outcome
A new survey commissioned by National 4-H Council, and conducted by the Harris Poll, finds that 7 in 10 teens are struggling with their mental health in the wake of COVID-19. More than half of those surveyed shared that the pandemic has increased their feelings of loneliness, with 64 percent believing it will have a lasting impact on their mental health. The survey, conducted in May 2020, is among the first to examine the impact this unprecedented public health crisis has had on U.S. teens. (4-H.org) In an effort to continue to offer 4-H programming and positively impact their mental health, the 4-H Stress Busters Virtual Spin Club was offered to youth in District 6. It used the curricula “4-H Yoga” (University of Arkansas; Washburn, Copeland, Vincent) and “Centering on Me” (University of Kentucky; Peritore). During the six-session course held over ZOOM, club participants learned and practiced techniques for combating stress and anxiety through focused, controlled breathing and meditation. Building upon the breathing skills, participants learned and practiced how to correctly stretch and why stretching is important. The last two sessions brought everything together with 4-H Yoga. Fourteen youth signed up; participation varied from four to seven per meeting. Four youth did not miss a meeting. Parent feedback indicated the youth looked forward to each meeting and enjoyed their experience. During the last meeting, participating youth indicated they had practiced at least one of the techniques learned in the club.
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