The #OkresNoStres program aims to support girls going through their first menstruation. The program, aimed at female students in grades 4, not only educates about menstruation, but also draws attention to the psychological aspects associated with the experience. It is designed to help minimize stress and provide girls with support both at school and at home. The program offers free educational and hygiene materials for schools, including family education lesson plans, packets for female students, and informational posters and flyers for parents. The author of the materials is psychologist Tosia Kopyt, a specialist in menstruation education.
#OkresNoStress - menstrual education support program launches
Published Sept. 17, 2024 07:26
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First menstruation often causes stress and confusion for girls, due to lack of preparation and insufficient knowledge. Research conducted by SW Research on behalf of the Bella brand shows that as many as 92% of women felt strong emotions such as stress (41%) and surprise (34%) during their first period. Not knowing how to cope causes additional confusion. Although girls can count on the help of their parents, especially their mothers, they are often left alone at school with the problem, which exacerbates their fears.
Support at school - key in menstrual education
Studies show that as many as 27% of girls have not received support from their mothers regarding their first menstruation. In such cases, school becomes a key place where girls can gain knowledge and feel safe. The #OkresNoStres program aims to provide them with mental comfort and teach them social skills, such as asking for help in crisis situations. Simple help, like giving a sanitary pad, can significantly alleviate stress, and girls learn that they can rely on those around them.
Generation Z - better prepared but more stressed?
Paradoxically, although representatives of Generation Z were more likely to receive support from their mothers than women from Generation X, they feel more stress about their first menstruation (43.5% vs. 40.9%). Experts point out that this may be due to negative communication, in which mothers, although they themselves were not prepared, may inadvertently convey fears and anxiety.
To help parents better prepare their daughters, the program also offers e-bulletins in which psychologist Tosia Kopyt suggests how to have conversations about menstruation in a supportive and anxiety-free manner.
First such program on menstruation
#OkresNoStres is the first educational program that focuses on the psychological aspects of menstruation, not just the physiology. Through it, girls learn that they can count on themselves and those around them - whether at school or at home. The program is voluntary and free, and schools can apply through a form available at www.okresnostres.edu.pl. The first 100 schools to sign up will receive additional materials, such as a supply of sanitary pads for nurses' offices, Bella for Teens products and educational posters to hang in school.
The #OkresNoStres initiative is a step toward emotional support for young girls, as well as reducing the taboo around menstruation, giving them the reassurance that they are not alone at this important time in their lives.
Source: Based on press mat.
