New Survey Finds 89% Of Irish Parents Say Teens Feel Stressed Weekly As School Returns

Almost nine in ten parents in Ireland (89%) believe their teenager feels stressed on a weekly basis, according to a new survey commissioned by PrecisionBiotics, the Cork-linked microbiome research company behind the Alflorex and Zenflore brands.

The Zenflore Teen Stress Survey, based on 502 responses from parents of teenagers, found schoolwork and homework to be the biggest source of stress, cited by 50% of parents overall and 55% of parents of teens described as "very stressed." Social media (34%), friendships (33%) and worries about future plans or college (30%) followed.

The survey also found that talking to parents was the coping mechanism most commonly cited as helpful, named by 39% of parents of stressed teenagers. Other coping mechanisms identified included listening to music (37%), exercise or sport (33%) and talking to friends (28%).

Among parents of teenagers described as "very stressed," 50% said stress made their teen irritable or caused mood swings, 48% reported increased anxiety and worry, and 43% said their teen had missed school because of stress. 38% said they usually spoke to a pharmacist or medical professional about it.

Tadgh O'Donovan, Educator ("Teach With Tadgh"):

"The back-to-school period can cause a significant amount of stress with teenagers coming off the back of stress-free summers. There are many different coping mechanisms highlighted by the survey and each will vary from person to person. We often recommend a good mix between exercise, good nutrition, socialising and consistent sleep. The most important thing is to have a consistent and healthy routine.

It's important to look after ourselves, especially our gut because the gut and brain talk to each other which often explains why stress can upset your tummy and why gut health can affect your mood. Supplements could also be helpful like Zenflore Teen which is powered by Bifidobacterium longum 1714™, a bacterial strain that has been shown to support stress resilience, calmness and sleep quality by connecting the gut with the brain. Speak to your local pharmacist to find out what supplements might help your teen best."

PrecisionBiotics said the Bifidobacterium longum 1714™ strain was discovered and developed by its scientists in collaboration with APC Microbiome Ireland at University College Cork. According to the release, the strain has been studied in adults for its effect on perceived daily stress and short-term stress response; no teen-specific research is cited for Zenflore Teen. The company recommends parents speak to a pharmacist for advice.