Teacher Script: Anxiety: Friend or Foe?

Warm-Up: How Are We Feeling? (5 minutes)

(Display Slide 1: Welcome! How Are We Feeling?)

"Good morning/afternoon, everyone. Before we dive into today's topic, I want to start with a quick check-in. It's completely normal to feel different emotions throughout the school day, or even within a single class period. Today, we're going to talk about something many of us experience, but first, let's just get a sense of how we're all doing."

(Display Slide 2: Quick Check-In)

"Take a moment to reflect on these two questions: What's one word to describe how you're feeling about school today? And why do you think you feel this way? You don't have to share with the whole class if you're not comfortable, but think about it for yourself. If you'd like to share a word or a brief thought, feel free to raise your hand or jot it down privately."

"Thank you to those who shared or reflected internally. It's important to be aware of our own emotional landscape."

Introduction to Anxiety (10 minutes)

(Display Slide 3: Anxiety: Friend or Foe?)

"Today, we're going to explore a very common human emotion: anxiety. When you hear the word 'anxiety,' what immediately comes to mind? Just shout out a few words or phrases."

"Great responses. We hear words like 'worry,' 'stress,' 'nervousness,' 'fear.' All of those are connected."

(Display Slide 4: What Is Anxiety, Really?)

"Anxiety is essentially our body's natural response to stress. It's that feeling of fear or apprehension about what's to come. Think about it: sometimes, anxiety can actually be our 'friend.' It can warn us of danger – like the feeling you get when you're about to step into a busy street. It can motivate us to prepare, like studying for a big exam or practicing for a presentation. It keeps us alert and focused."

"However, anxiety can also become a 'foe.' It can be overwhelming, making us feel paralyzed or unable to function. It can interfere with our daily life, our learning, and our relationships. We're not talking about clinical diagnoses today, but rather the everyday experience of anxiety that many of us face."

(Display Slide 5: Anxiety and School)

"In high school, it's incredibly common for students to experience anxiety. Who here has ever felt anxious about a test, a presentation, a social situation in the hallways, or even just keeping up with all your homework?"

"See? You are absolutely not alone. Test anxiety, social anxiety, worrying about college applications, balancing extracurriculars – these are all very real pressures that can lead to anxiety. Our goal today is to understand it better and learn how to manage it, especially here in the classroom."

Identifying Anxiety's Signs (10 minutes)

(Display Slide 6: How Does Anxiety Show Up?)

"So, how does anxiety actually show up? It's not just a feeling in your head. It affects our whole being. Let's start with our bodies. When you're anxious, you might notice a fast heartbeat, sweaty palms, maybe a stomach ache, or tense muscles. Some people feel shaky or get headaches. It can even make it hard to sleep."

"Has anyone ever felt any of these physical sensations when they've been stressed or nervous?"

(Display Slide 7: How Does Anxiety Show Up?)

"Beyond our bodies, anxiety also impacts our minds. You might find yourself worrying constantly, feeling irritable, or having trouble concentrating on your work. It can make you feel overwhelmed, like you have too much to do and not enough time. Sometimes, your mind might race, constantly thinking about worst-case scenarios."

"What are some thoughts that pop into your head when you feel anxious or overwhelmed by schoolwork?"

(Display Slide 8: How Does Anxiety Show Up?)

"Finally, anxiety can change our actions, or our behavior. You might notice yourself avoiding school or certain activities, procrastinating on assignments, feeling restless, or fidgeting. Some people might withdraw from their friends or family. These are often unconscious ways our bodies try to cope with uncomfortable feelings."

"It's important to remember that experiencing these signs is universal. It doesn't mean you're weak or that there's something wrong with you. It just means you're human, and your body is reacting to stress."

Coping Strategies in the Classroom (15 minutes)

(Display Slide 9: Taking Control: Strategies!)

"The good news is, while anxiety is a natural response, we're not powerless against it when it becomes a 'foe.' There are many things we can do to manage it, especially right here in the classroom or during your school day. The goal isn't to eliminate anxiety entirely – remember, it can be a friend – but to prevent it from becoming overwhelming."

(Display Slide 10: Practical Classroom Coping)

"Let's talk about some practical strategies. First, Breathe Deep. Slow, deep breaths can literally calm your nervous system. Let's try one together right now. Everyone, sit up straight, place one hand on your chest and one on your belly. Breathe in slowly through your nose, feeling your belly rise. Hold for a count of three, then slowly exhale through your mouth, feeling your belly fall. Let's do that three times. (Lead breathing exercise for 30 seconds). Notice how even a few breaths can make a difference."

"Another strategy is a Mindfulness Minute. When you feel overwhelmed, take 60 seconds to just focus on your senses. What do you see around you right now? What do you hear? What do you feel? This helps bring you back to the present moment. And sometimes, a Quick Break is all you need. If you're stuck on a problem or feeling stressed, step away from your work for a minute. Stretch, get a drink of water, or just look out the window. Then come back to it."

"I've also prepared a Discussion Guide: Talking About Anxiety for you. I want you to get into small groups of 3-4 people. Discuss these strategies and think about how you could personally use one or two of them during your school day. Which ones resonate with you? Are there others you already use? I'll give you about 7-8 minutes for this."

"Alright, let's bring it back together. Anyone want to share a strategy they discussed or one they think they might try?"

(Display Slide 11: More Tools for Your Toolkit)

"Beyond these, remember to Plan & Prioritize. Breaking down big tasks into smaller, manageable steps can make a huge difference in feeling less overwhelmed. And don't be afraid to Talk It Out. Share your feelings with a trusted teacher, a school counselor, a parent, or a friend. You don't have to carry these feelings alone. Finally, Movement can be a powerful tool. A quick walk, a stretch, or any physical activity can help release tension."

Cool-Down: One Takeaway (5 minutes)

(Display Slide 12: Cool-Down: Your Takeaway)

"As we wrap up, I'd like everyone to take a moment for our cool-down activity, which is also on the slide. Think about what we discussed today and identify one new thing you learned about anxiety, or one strategy you plan to try. You can write it down, or just keep it in mind. If you're willing to share, please do."

"Thank you all for your engagement today. Remember, understanding anxiety is the first step towards managing it effectively. Don't hesitate to reach out if you ever need support."

Warm-Up: How Are We Feeling?

Take a moment to check in with yourself.

1. What's one word to describe how you're feeling about school today?
   
   
   
   
2. Why do you think you feel this way?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

(You will have an opportunity to share your thoughts with the class, or you can keep your reflections private.)

Discussion Guide: Talking About Anxiety

In your small groups, discuss the following questions. Be respectful of each other's experiences and perspectives.

1. Out of the coping strategies we discussed (Deep Breathing, Mindfulness Minute, Quick Break, Plan & Prioritize, Talk It Out, Movement), which one resonates with you the most and why?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. Can you think of a specific situation at school where you could apply this strategy? How would it help?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

3. Are there any other strategies you currently use, or have seen others use, to manage stress or anxiety in a school setting?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

4. Why do you think it's important for us to talk about anxiety and coping mechanisms in school?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Cool-Down: One Takeaway

Before you leave today, reflect on our discussion about anxiety.

1. What is one new thing you learned about anxiety today?
   
   
   
   
2. What is one coping strategy you plan to try in the future to help manage anxiety related to school?