On June 30, 2024, a stress management training session was held at the Christ Church of Limbé in the 4th section of Chabeaud. Organized to help participants better understand and manage their stress, this session highlighted the various aspects of stress and proposed practical solutions to overcome it.

Images capturing moments of interaction between the facilitator and participants.

Participants

All participants, aged 15 to 45, numbered 19 in total. They came from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, but shared common vulnerabilities such as economic precarity, widespread insecurity, and increased emotional vulnerability.

Context and Objectives

Given the various impacts that stress can have on individuals' lives, this training was designed to help participants manage their stress effectively. The topic was formulated as follows: "Stress: What Solutions to Get Rid of It?". This initiative is part of the Christ Church of Limbé's efforts to improve the quality of life of its members and the surrounding community.

Photo showing participants seated and attentively following the training.

The session, which lasted two hours, covered a range of relevant topics:

• Definition of stress: Understanding what stress is and how it manifests.
• Phases of stress: Identifying the different stages of stress.
• Sources of stress: Exploring common causes of stress in daily life.
• Types of stress: Differentiating between acute and chronic stress.
• Causes, symptoms, and consequences of stress: Examining the factors that contribute to stress and its potential impacts on physical and mental health.
• Stress management: Presentation of techniques and strategies to manage and reduce stress, including relaxation exercises, time management methods, and advice for a balanced life.

The activity took place at the Christ Church of Limbé in the 4th section of Chabeaud. This location was chosen due to its proximity to participants and its capacity to accommodate community trainings.

Implementation and Feedback

This activity was made possible through collaboration with the coordinator of the Church's Youth Association, who initiated the request for this training. After scheduling the date and time, the training proceeded with active participation from members. Feedback was extremely positive, with participants expressing their gratitude for the information and techniques learned. They also expressed strong interest in future trainings.

Impact and Relevance

Since stress is a ubiquitous component of daily life, it is essential to understand and manage it effectively. Negative stress can have harmful impacts on both physical and mental health. This training aims to prepare individuals to face life's difficulties and changes by providing them with practical tools to manage their stress. By discussing stress management and proposing solutions, this training contributes to preventing the negative effects of prolonged (chronic) stress.

This activity advances ACCÈS-Santé's mission in the community by promoting health. It strengthens the ties between the clinic and the Christ Church of Limbé in the 4th section of Chabeaud, while increasing the clinic's visibility. The next step is to organize follow-up sessions to evaluate the long-term impact of this training and address the community's ongoing needs.