The University of Queensland, Australia is seeking “stressed out” adults to participate in a program designed to help them cope with the stress in their lives.

The six week program, entitled Stress Less, is being run by the Behaviour Research and Therapy Centre in UQ’s School of Psychology. Each week involves a two hour session covering such topics as basic education regarding stress, examining the link between stress and common psychological disorders such as depression and anxiety, altering negative thinking patterns, problem solving, relaxation exercises, and tips for healthy living.

The sessions will be facilitated by psychologists undertaking postgraduate clinical training within the School of Psychology. “The strategies incorporated into the program have all been shown in research to increase people’s capacity to cope with stress,” according to Mark Trembath, Intern Psychologist and Course Co-Facilitator. He says the costs of stress are not only high for individuals, but for society as well, with stress resulting in greater use of sick leave and lower rates of productivity at work.

“In small amounts stress can be adaptive, motivating us to tackle the tasks assigned to us. However, current levels of stress for many people have progressed far beyond the adaptive stage, to the point where great difficulty is experienced balancing competing commitments to work, family, and friends,” says Mr Trembath.

Anyone who feels that stress has become an overwhelmingly negative part of their life or anyone interested in acquiring the skills to help them cope with stress is encouraged to enrol in the program.

The program will run on Monday evenings, commencing on 10 May at a cost of $75 per participant. If you are interested in participating or would like more information, contact Suzanne or Glenda at the Behaviour Research and Therapy Centre clinic on 3365 6451.

Media: For more information contact Mark Trembath (telephone 0416 226
573) or Rachael Wagner (telephone 0413 888 287).