The FRIENDS Programs, developed in Australia, are cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) based programs that have earned the endorsement of the World Health Organization. They are considered the best practice for preventing and treating anxiety and depression, while fostering resilience in families, schools, and communities. These highly effective programs have been proven to work across all age groups, from prep to grade 12 and into adulthood, both nationally and internationally. The FRIENDS suite of programs includes Fun FRIENDS, FRIENDS for Life, My FRIENDS Youth, and Adult Resilience – Strong Not Tough. These programs have demonstrated their effectiveness in reducing anxiety and depression symptoms, enhancing resilience, selfconfidence, self-efficacy, self-esteem, and social-emotional skills. They have also shown positive impacts on peer relationships, as well as attitudes toward learning and the school environment. Notably, these positive outcomes have been observed at post-program, 12-month, and 3-year follow-ups. The FRIENDS Programs are firmly grounded in a robust theoretical and evidence-based framework. This framework addresses attachment (emotions), physiological (body), cognitive (mind), and learning (behavior) processes, which interact in the development, experience, and maintenance of anxiety. At AHMC’s Friends Resilience, we offer comprehensive training to teachers, education professionals, and allied health professionals who aim to implement the FRIENDS programs in their clinics, schools, organizations, government departments, communities, or countries. Decoding the “FRIENDS” Acronym: Effective Strategies for Anxiety Management FRIENDS is an acronym that assists children in remembering the strategies taught to effectively manage anxiety:
• F = Feelings (empathy training and self-regulation)
• R = Remember to relax (relaxation and mindfulness strategies)
• I = I can try my best (shifting from unhelpful to helpful thinking)
• E = Explore Coping Step Plans and strategies for finding helpful solutions (choosing positive actions)
• N = Now reward yourself for trying your best (prioritizing interpersonal rewards)
• D = Don’t forget to practice (utilizing FRIENDS skills and contributing to the community)
• S = Stay calm (emulating values-based role models and seeking support networks) These programs teach specific skills based on the following principles:
• Our body is our FRIEND, signaling when we feel worried, enabling us to choose helpful thoughts and positive actions
. • We are FRIENDS to ourselves by embracing positive, helpful thoughts and actions, including relaxation and mindfulness strategies.
• Learning to be our own FRIEND is crucial, and we should reward ourselves for giving our best effort.
• Considering our FRIENDS and values-based role models/support networks is important when making choices for positive actions. Unlock the power of the FRIENDS Programs to manage anxiety effectively and build resilience. Contact us now to embark on your journey toward a healthier, happier future