The Role of Life Skills Education in Promoting Stress Management and Mental Well-being among Students

Abstract

The increasing prevalence of stress, anxiety, and mental health challenges among students’ at all educational levels has become a pressing global concern. Life Skills Education (LSE), as conceptualized by the World Health Organization (WHO), offers a structured, evidence-based framework aimed at equipping students with essential psychosocial competencies. This paper investigates the role of Life Skills Education in promoting effective stress management and overall mental well-being among students. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature, theoretical frameworks, and empirical studies, this paper explores how core life skills (including self-awareness, emotional regulation, critical thinking, interpersonal communication, coping strategies, and decision-making) collectively contribute to improved mental health outcomes in academic settings. The paper also discusses the barriers to effective LSE implementation and offers recommendations for educators, policymakers, and institutions. Findings suggest that systematically integrated life skills programs significantly reduce stress levels, improve academic performance, and foster long-term psychological resilience in students.

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