What Makes Me Happy and what Worries Me? A Cross-national Comparison of Stressors and Resources for Stress Relief Among Youth

Abstract Numerous evidence-based programs aim to promote youth mental health. Unfortunately, however, they often fail to engage the target group and lack cultural sensitivity. The present study addresses these issues by using a participatory approach to look at variations of stressors and resources for stress relief among students (12-15 years) in three European countries. Two participatory workshops were conducted in three schools in Austria, Poland and Slovenia, with a total of 81 students participating in the first workshop, and 83 in the second. This study presents the findings derived from two distinct participatory activities wherein participants reported their stressors (Relevant Topics activity) and resources (Photovoice activity). Overall, the study revealed remarkable similarities in stressors and resources across the three countries, but differences were also identified. Stressors relating to interpersonal relationships, school, and self-concept were common themes. While concerns regarding health, future, and global issues were less frequently mentioned, they remained persistent across all countries, an indication of their growing relevance amid today’s multiple crises. Animals, sports, and relationships emerged as the most frequently reported resources. Creative arts and expression, music, and calm activities like reading, and spending time in nature were also frequently cited. Notably, engagement with digital devices or social media emerged neither as a common stressor nor as a notable personal resource. The findings will be used to inform the content development of a culturally sensitive digital mental health promotion program, covering salient topics comprehensively while ensuring diversity awareness.