Pathway to Calm

Erin Merrill

Tier 3

Lesson Plan

Pathway to Calm

Distress Tolerance & Reintegration

This lesson is designed to support Grade 9 students returning from psychiatric hospitalizations by focusing on distress tolerance and reintegration into a school routine. Through trauma-informed teaching and inquiry-based learning, students will explore strategies to manage stress and anxiety, helping them transition smoothly back into their academic environment. This lesson is crucial for building resilience and confidence in students as they navigate their return to school.

Audience

Grade 9 Students (1:1 Setting)

Time

30 min

Approach

Trauma-Informed Teaching, Inquiry-Based Learning

Materials

Worksheet: Distress Tolerance Strategies, Reading: Understanding Stress and Anxiety, and Activity: Personal Coping Plan

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

Welcome the student and create a safe, supportive environment.
Briefly discuss the purpose of the session: to explore ways to manage stress and ease back into school life.

Step 2

Reading Discussion

5 mins

Provide the student with the reading material on stress and anxiety.
Discuss key points from the reading, encouraging the student to share their thoughts and feelings.

Step 3

Worksheet Activity

10 mins

Introduce the worksheet on distress tolerance strategies.
Guide the student through each section, prompting them to think about personal experiences and coping mechanisms.

Step 4

Personal Coping Plan

7 mins

Engage the student in creating a personal coping plan using insights from the worksheet.
Encourage them to identify specific strategies they can use in school settings.

Step 5

Closure

3 mins

Summarize the key takeaways from the session.
Reinforce the importance of using these strategies in daily life.
Offer additional support and resources if needed.

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Worksheet

Distress Tolerance Strategies

This worksheet helps students identify and explore various strategies for managing distress and anxiety. It encourages self-reflection and personal application of coping mechanisms.

List three situations that cause you stress or anxiety.

Think about recent experiences at school or home.

What are some physical signs you notice when you're stressed?

Describe a strategy that has helped you calm down in the past.

Consider breathing exercises, talking to someone, or taking a break.

How can you apply this strategy in a school setting?

Reading

Understanding Stress and Anxiety

This reading provides an overview of stress and anxiety, helping students understand their emotions and reactions. It serves as a foundation for discussing personal experiences and coping strategies.

Understanding Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety are common experiences for everyone, especially during times of change or uncertainty. They can affect your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Recognizing the signs of stress and anxiety is the first step in managing them effectively.

Physical Signs: Increased heart rate, sweating, tense muscles.
Emotional Signs: Feeling overwhelmed, irritable, or anxious.
Cognitive Signs: Difficulty concentrating, racing thoughts.

By understanding these signs, you can begin to develop strategies to manage stress and anxiety, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and seeking support from others.