Stress Busters

Micaela Flynn

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Stress Busters

Stress management techniques

This lesson focuses on equipping high school students with practical skills to manage stress effectively. Students will learn and practice techniques such as breathing exercises, time management tips, and positive self-talk strategies. These skills are essential for maintaining mental well-being and improving academic performance, making this lesson crucial for students' overall development.

Audience

High School Students

Time

1 hour

Approach

Stress management techniques

Materials

Breathing Exercise Guide, Time Management Tips Handout, Positive Self-Talk Worksheet, and Pens and Paper

Step 1

Introduction

10 mins

Begin with a brief discussion on what stress is and how it affects us.
Ask students to share their experiences with stress and how they currently manage it.

Step 2

Breathing Exercises

15 mins

Introduce the concept of deep breathing as a stress management tool.
Guide students through a simple breathing exercise using the Breathing Exercise Guide.
Encourage students to reflect on how they feel before and after the exercise.

Step 3

Time Management Tips

15 mins

Distribute the Time Management Tips Handout.
Discuss the importance of managing time to reduce stress.
Have students identify one or two tips they can implement in their daily routine.

Step 4

Positive Self-Talk

15 mins

Explain the concept of positive self-talk and its impact on stress levels.
Provide examples of positive self-talk phrases.
Have students complete the Positive Self-Talk Worksheet, creating their own positive affirmations.

Step 5

Closure

5 mins

Recap the techniques learned: breathing exercises, time management, and positive self-talk.
Encourage students to practice these techniques regularly.
Invite students to share one technique they plan to use in the coming week.

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Reading

Breathing Exercise Guide

A guide to help students practice deep breathing exercises to manage stress.

Breathing Exercise Guide

Find a Comfortable Position: Sit or lie down in a comfortable position.
Close Your Eyes: Gently close your eyes and take a deep breath in through your nose.
Hold and Release: Hold your breath for a few seconds, then slowly exhale through your mouth.
Repeat: Continue this pattern for 5-10 minutes, focusing on your breath and letting go of any tension.

Reading

Time Management Tips Handout

A handout providing students with practical tips to manage their time effectively and reduce stress.

Time Management Tips

Prioritize Tasks: Make a list of tasks and prioritize them based on importance and deadlines.
Set Goals: Break larger tasks into smaller, manageable goals.
Use a Planner: Keep a planner or digital calendar to track assignments and deadlines.
Avoid Multitasking: Focus on one task at a time to increase efficiency.
Take Breaks: Schedule short breaks to rest and recharge.

Worksheet

Positive Self-Talk Worksheet

A worksheet to help students develop positive self-talk strategies to manage stress.

Write down three positive affirmations you can use when feeling stressed.

Think about phrases that boost your confidence and calm your mind.

Describe a stressful situation and how you can use positive self-talk to handle it.

Consider how changing your thoughts can change your feelings.