Stress is an ancient survival mechanism that ensures that we as primitive humans were more focused, faster and more powerful in life-threatening situations. A short, intense physical reaction allowed us to escape the bear or shoot the deer, so that the family had food again. After this intense effort, there was time to relax. The deer went to the cave, was prepared and we could relax for a few days before we had to hunt again. This also illustrates where things are going wrong these days. There is little or no time for relaxation. And although lounging on the couch in front of the TV can sometimes feel quite relaxing, all images that reach our retinas are experienced as reality and our brain and therefore our hormone balance work overtime when we see threatening or uncomfortable situations.

In order to regain the balance between carrying capacity and carrying load, you also need relaxation after the effort for the much-needed recovery, both physically and mentally. In the Stress Prevention for Students training, I work with young people from the age of 14 who suffer from stress symptoms, which often manifests itself in fear of failure or other anxiety complaints.

They are not the only ones because – don’t be alarmed – 60% of young people suffer from chronic stress symptoms. A burnout in children of 15 is unfortunately not an exception. The pressure that these young people experience is enormous. And, although with the best intentions, we as parents also contribute to this. We are primarily the role model, the example – intentionally or unintentionally – that our children mirror themselves on. In addition to school performance, the pressure of selection on the sports field, the compelling power of social media and the importance of extracurricular activities for a possible follow-up study, the expectations of parents are very decisive for the amount of pressure that a teenager experiences.

Unfortunately, we cannot remove this broad social pressure for them. We can teach them to deal with this pressure in a different way, so that the carrying capacity and the carrying load are better balanced again. That starts with managing our own expectations and setting the right example. By also making more time for ourselves. Because no time does not exist; make yourself a priority again!

In the Stress Prevention for Pupils training, pupils learn to deal with pressure in a different way. The techniques, tips and tools they learn here form a solid foundation and are an investment for life. The training is given in Hilversum in small groups. (www.stresspreventionvoorscholieren.nl ).

For final exam candidates it is possible to follow this training 1 on 1. For parents there are coaching conversations to gain insight into the symptoms of stress and how to deal with it in the home situation.

Eveline is a trainer and coach for anyone who wants to take a step in their personal development or wants to break free from old patterns and limiting thoughts and beliefs in order to live and work with more energy, freedom and inspiration.