Adolescent Stress Management in a Primary Care Clinic

J Pediatr Health Care. 2019 Mar-Apr;33(2):178-185. doi: 10.1016/j.pedhc.2018.08.001. Epub 2018 Sep 3.

Abstract

Introduction: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that adolescents be screened for mental health concerns and receive anticipatory guidance on stress management strategies.

Methods: Eighty-six participants (50 participants in the intervention group; 36 participants in the control group) participated in the study. Intervention group participants received training in diaphragmatic breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and use of no-cost/low-cost exercise options. Biofeedback was used to guide relaxation. Subjective distress and heart rate variability was measured before and after the intervention.

Results: After the intervention, decreased levels of perceived stress and increased heart rate variability were reported compared with the control group.

Discussion: This study show that an integrated care model in a primary care setting is feasible and effective at improving stress management.

Keywords: Adolescent health; biofeedback; integrated care; primary care; stress.

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological
  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Health*
  • Biofeedback, Psychology
  • Breathing Exercises* / methods
  • Female
  • Health Care Surveys
  • Heart Rate / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Internal-External Control
  • Male
  • Muscle Relaxation / physiology
  • Primary Health Care*
  • Program Evaluation
  • Relaxation / physiology*
  • Relaxation / psychology
  • Self Efficacy
  • Stress, Psychological / physiopathology
  • Stress, Psychological / psychology
  • Stress, Psychological / therapy*