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  1. Help-Seeking Strategies
  1. LibraryLibrary
  2. Mental & Emotional Health
  3. Help-Seeking Strategies

Help-Seeking Strategies

Discover a curated collection of free resources designed to empower educators, students, and parents with effective help-seeking strategies for mental and emotional health. Gain insights into recognizing when to seek help, how to approach trusted adults or professionals, and build communication skills through interactive lessons and relatable real-world examples. Engage in practical activities that foster resilience, confidence, and supportive relationships, making mental wellness accessible to all.

Suggested Resources

Community Resources

Community Resources

Help Happens Here

In this 75-minute community seminar, participants will explore local and online mental health resources, learn how to access them, and practice destigmatizing help-seeking behaviors. Emphasizing practical strategies and real-world connection, this Tier 1 session empowers adults to support themselves and others in seeking help.

Tier 1
8/12

Marina De Leon

q

TX Instructor

Assessing Mental and Emotional Health for College Applications

This lesson is designed for 12th grade students to help them assess their mental and emotional health while dealing with college applications and making significant career decisions. The objective is to equip students with strategies to manage stress and make informed decisions. The lesson will last 45 minutes.

Tier 1
2/25
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Ellie Cuenca

h

NY Instructor

Understanding CBT: Thoughts, Feelings, Actions

This lesson introduces students to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), focusing on the interplay between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Students will explore how these elements influence each other and learn practical strategies to manage stress and anxiety. This lesson is crucial for developing self-awareness and emotional regulation skills, which are essential for mental well-being and academic success.

Tier 1
2/25

Deb Schmill

h

NY Instructor

Emotional First Aid: Coping Strategies for Tough Times

Equip students with emotional coping skills for when they encounter personal challenges. They will learn practical strategies for immediate emotional support, fostering resilience and a positive mental health framework.

Tier 1
3/4

p adams

a

NC Social Worker

Voices for Wellness

In this 5-session, 30-minute unit for grades 5–8, students deepen mental health awareness by identifying personal strengths and challenges and crafting a persuasive mental health public service announcement. Through reflective activities, collaborative brainstorming, and iterative feedback, students will develop, storyboard, and present a polished PSA to promote coping strategies and resilience.

Tier 1
5/27
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Joleen Shillingford

h

NY Counselor

Mapping Your Stressors and Supporters

In this interactive session, students will create a visual map of their biggest stressors and their sources of support. This exercise encourages reflection and allows them to recognize the people and activities that can help them manage stress, fostering a sense of connectivity and self-awareness. This lesson is important as it helps students develop emotional intelligence and resilience by understanding their personal stressors and support systems.

Tier 1
2/25
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Loren Baccari

S

MA Counselor

Mind Toolbox: CBT Power

In this 6-session series, 10th–12th graders learn core cognitive behavioral therapy strategies to manage anxiety and depression. Each 30-minute class includes engaging activities, discussions, games, and hands-on worksheets. This Tier 1 lesson builds lifelong mental health skills using inclusive language and supports all learners.

Tier 1
8/22
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mschwartz

S

MA Social Worker

Mind Toolbox: CBT Power

In this 6-session series, 10th–12th graders learn core cognitive behavioral therapy strategies to manage anxiety and depression. Each 30-minute class includes engaging activities, discussions, games, and hands-on worksheets. This Tier 1 lesson builds lifelong mental health skills using inclusive language and supports all learners.

Tier 1
8/22
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mschwartz

S

MA Social Worker

Talking About Mental Health: Communication Strategies

This lesson will introduce students to the basics of mental health, including identifying signs and understanding its importance. This foundational knowledge will equip students to engage in meaningful discussions about mental health and recognize when they or others might need help.

Tier 1
2/25

jim coutre

h

NY Instructor

Mind and Body Wellness: A Toolkit for Teens

This lesson will help students understand the importance of maintaining both their physical and mental health. It will cover topics such as stress management, healthy relationships, and self-care practices. Students will watch and discuss two videos, engage in interactive activities, and complete a brief survey to assess their understanding.

Tier 1
2/25
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Nancy Love

T

MD Instructor

Stress SOS: Calm Command

In this 30-minute Tier 3 one-on-one session for 10th graders, students assess their stress levels, uncover personal triggers, and craft a customized action plan to manage anxiety. This targeted lesson empowers students with self-awareness and practical coping strategies for real-life challenges.

Tier 3
8/21
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Melissa Kamakawiwoole

K

HI General Education Teacher

You Matter: Building Emotional Resilience

This lesson focuses on suicide prevention and social-emotional support for 9th-grade students. It aims to build emotional resilience and awareness, providing students with the tools and understanding to support themselves and others. This important session will help students recognize signs of emotional distress and learn strategies to seek help and offer support, fostering a supportive community environment.

Tier 1
4/4
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Meghan Erney

i

OH Social Worker

Mind Matters Toolkit

A one-session, 30-minute individual counseling lesson for 6th graders focused on mental health counseling and building personal coping strategies. This Tier 3 lesson helps students identify emotions, learn coping tools, and practice self-talk to manage stress and anxiety.

Tier 3
5/16
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Jacqueline Russell

I

FL Counselor

Mind Matters

A small-group deep dive into identifying thought patterns and coping strategies. This 40-minute Tier 2 session empowers 10th graders to spot thinking traps and build self-care tools, boosting real-time mental wellness.

Tier 2
8/22
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Alivia Storm

O

IN Instructor

Cultural Connections: Understanding Mental Health

This lesson explores mental health through a cultural lens, helping students understand different cultural perspectives on mental wellness. Students will engage in group discussions and presentations to explore how various cultures view mental health. This lesson is important as it fosters empathy, cultural awareness, and critical thinking, equipping students with a broader understanding of mental health issues globally.

Tier 1
2/25
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Shawna Cruz

S

MA Counselor

Coping Strategies Toolkit

In this lesson, students will learn about various coping strategies that they can use to manage stress and emotions. They will engage in a discussion, complete a worksheet to practice identifying and applying coping strategies, and finish with an exit ticket to reinforce learning and self-reflection. Understanding and utilizing effective coping strategies are essential for students' emotional well-being and academic success.

Tier 1
2/25
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Judith Ross

S

MA Counselor

Coping Skills Superheroes: Building Resilience Together

In this engaging 30-minute session for 6th and 7th graders, students will explore and develop healthy coping skills through interactive activities and discussions. This lesson is crucial as it empowers students to handle stress and emotions effectively, fostering resilience and emotional well-being. The session includes a lesson plan, worksheet, discussion, activity, and game, all designed to support small groups needing extra help in managing emotions.

Tier 2
3/28
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Michael Warren (Counselor)

D

AZ Counselor

Resilience Toolkit

This individualized support guide equips a 7th grade student with personalized coping strategies and crisis response steps to build resilience and emotional regulation. Through targeted coaching and self-reflection activities in one 20-minute session, the student will develop a practical toolkit for managing stress and anxiety

Tier 3
5/19
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Allison Thibodaux-Wing

E

CA Psychologist

Spotting the Signs: A Parent's Guide to Teen Mental Health

This lesson is designed to educate parents on recognizing signs of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety in teenagers. Understanding these signs is crucial for early intervention and support. The session will be conducted in English and Spanish, catering to teen parents, and will include a variety of engaging components to ensure comprehensive learning.

Tier 1
3/7

Suani Lopez

E

CA Social Worker

Mindful Social Media Use

This lesson engages high school students in reflecting on their social media usage and its impact on mental health and self-image. Through discussion and a worksheet activity, students will explore strategies to maintain a balanced digital life, promoting positive interactions online and reducing negative influences. This lesson is important as it equips students with the awareness and tools needed to navigate social media mindfully, fostering healthier digital habits.

Tier 1
2/25

p adams

a

NC Social Worker

Mind Toolbox

In this 40-minute, Tier 3 individual therapy session, an 8th grade student will learn about various coping tools for managing stress and building resilience. Through an overview of coping strategies, a guided slide deck, hands-on activity, and reflection exercises, the student will create a personalized Mind Toolbox that promotes self-efficacy and emotional regulation.

Tier 3
9/5
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Sydney Jones

I

FL Counselor

Mind Matters: Navigating Mental Health

This lesson introduces 8th graders to the basics of mental health, focusing on recognizing signs of depression, anxiety, and substance use, and providing tools to improve mental health. It's crucial for students to understand these concepts to support themselves and others, and to know when and how to seek help. The lesson is designed for one 45-minute session, making it accessible and impactful for all students.

Tier 1
5/7

Eric Dragsbaek

S

MA Social Worker

Understanding Mental Health

This lesson introduces students to the concept of mental health, debunks common myths, and encourages seeking help when needed. It includes a video, group discussion, and a personal reflection activity.

Tier 1
2/25

Diana Lopez

l

PA Instructor

Mindset Matters

A focused individual worksheet session guiding a 10th grader through recognizing fixed vs. growth mindsets in real-life scenarios, boosting resilience through comparison exercises. This Tier 3 activity will help personalize interventions and cultivate self-awareness.

Tier 3
8/25
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Jamie Arzon

I

FL General Education Teacher

Wellness Checkpoint

This 15-minute individual Tier 3 lesson guides a secondary student in designing a concise mental health screener to triage referrals into Tier 2 group or Tier 3 one-on-one counseling. It empowers the student to craft clear, targeted questions for quick identification of support needs, ensuring swift and appropriate district mental health services.

Tier 3
5/9
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Adam Sipes

E

CA Counselor

Vision Boards for Emotional Wellness

In this lesson, students will create vision boards to promote emotional wellness by focusing on self-care and mental health goals. The lesson includes discussions on the importance of visualizing positive outcomes for emotional resilience. This activity helps students articulate their goals and visualize a positive future, which can enhance emotional resilience and self-awareness.

Tier 1
2/25

diana mclaughlin

S

MA Counselor

Emotional Resilience Toolbox

This lesson focuses on helping students identify and develop strategies to cope with emotional challenges. Students will explore various techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and positive self-talk, and collaborate to create a personal 'toolbox' of strategies. This lesson is important as it equips students with practical tools to manage stress and emotions, fostering resilience and emotional well-being.

Tier 1
2/25
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Priscila Anderson

S

MA Counselor

Mind Matters: Mental Health 101

This lesson introduces 8th-grade students to the basics of mental health awareness, focusing on recognizing common struggles like depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. It aims to equip students with basic tools to manage these feelings and encourage them to support each other and seek help when needed. This single 45-minute session is crucial for fostering a supportive and informed classroom environment.

Tier 1
5/7

Eric Dragsbaek

S

MA Social Worker

Help a Friend in Crisis

In this 15-minute individual support session, 10th graders will learn how to recognize signs of depression in a peer, use empathetic listening, and connect them with trusted adults and resources. This lesson equips students with practical tips for supporting friends in crisis and ensures they feel confident taking action.

Tier 3
9/4

Peyton Drummond

B

AL Counselor

Wellness and Emotional Well-being

This lesson focuses on promoting wellness and emotional well-being among elementary and middle school students. Through a combination of discussion, video, and activities, students will explore the importance of being active, understanding emotions, and developing healthy habits. This lesson is crucial as it helps students build a foundation for mental health awareness and social-emotional skills, which are essential for their overall development and success.

Tier 1
2/25

LaKeisha Thomas

p

TN Instructor

Emotional Well-being: Understanding and Expressing Emotions

This lesson will help students understand how to identify and manage their emotions. Through discussions and creative expression activities, they will learn coping strategies and the importance of seeking support when needed. This lesson is crucial as it equips students with tools to navigate their emotional well-being, build resilience, and improves their social interactions.

Tier 1
2/25
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Catherine Cooper

S

MA Instructor

Coping Strategies Workshop

This lesson introduces 10th grade students to effective coping strategies through active learning. Students will engage in a discussion to explore different coping mechanisms and participate in an activity to practice these strategies. This lesson is important as it equips students with tools to manage stress and emotions, promoting mental well-being and resilience.

Tier 1
2/25

Michelle Schneider

E

CA Psychologist

Coping with Anxiety: Strategies for Success

This lesson aims to equip 10th-grade students with practical strategies to cope with anxiety. By engaging in a discussion, watching a video, and participating in an activity, students will learn to identify anxiety triggers and apply coping mechanisms. This lesson is crucial as it empowers students to manage their mental health effectively, fostering resilience and emotional well-being.

Tier 1
2/25
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Karla Harness Brown

E

CA Instructor

Recognizing and Addressing Suicidal Thoughts

This lesson helps students identify warning signs of suicidal thoughts and understand how to seek help. It includes resources for support and crisis intervention, aiming to equip students with the knowledge and skills to support themselves and others. This lesson is crucial for fostering a supportive and safe school environment.

Tier 1
2/25
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Temi Kufeji

h

NY Counselor

Recognizing and Addressing Suicidal Thoughts

This lesson helps students identify warning signs of suicidal thoughts and understand how to seek help. It includes resources for support and crisis intervention, aiming to equip students with the knowledge and skills to support themselves and others. This lesson is crucial for fostering a supportive and safe school environment.

Tier 1
2/25
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Annie Giryluk

h

NY Social Worker

Understanding Mental Health Challenges

This lesson aims to introduce 9th-grade students to a wide range of mental health challenges, helping them recognize signs and understand the importance of seeking help. By engaging in blended, collaborative, and active learning activities, students will develop empathy and awareness about mental health issues, which is crucial for their personal development and well-being.

Tier 1
2/25
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Andrea Gillis

S

MA General Education Teacher

Mind Matters: Navigating Mental Health

This lesson introduces 7th and 8th graders to the concept of mental health, focusing on common challenges like depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Students will learn to recognize these issues in themselves and others, gain basic tools for managing emotions, and understand how to seek help for themselves or friends. This is a crucial lesson for May Mental Health Awareness Month, aiming to empower students with knowledge and resources for mental well-being.

Tier 1
5/2

Eric Dragsbaek

S

MA Social Worker

Calm Minds Toolkit

A 16-week CBT curriculum for high school students (ages 15-18) with anxiety. Students will learn core CBT concepts—CBT triangle, anxiety management skills, thought distortion identification—and practice through readings, discussions, activities, games, worksheets, and guided scripts. Each 30-minute session builds practical tools to manage anxiety and foster resilience.

Tier 2
6/18
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ahosmer

S

MA Social Worker

Mind Shift Masters

A 3-session CBT skills group for 10th graders with anxiety. Students will learn to identify cognitive distortions, fill out the CBT triangle, and reframe thoughts. These 30-minute Tier 2 group lessons build coping skills through interactive readings, discussions, games, and worksheets.

Tier 2
6/18
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ahosmer

S

MA Social Worker

Mind Code Detectives

Over three 30-minute group sessions, middle school students will explore an introduction to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), learning how thoughts influence feelings and behaviors. This Tier 2 lesson helps students develop skills to identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts, promoting resilience and emotional well-being.

Tier 2
8/11
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cristal.barko

D

AZ Social Worker

Coping Strategies for Depersonalization

This lesson plan is designed to help a 9th-grade girl with Depersonalization and Derealization Disorder (DDD) develop effective coping strategies. Through a series of three 30-minute sessions, the student will engage in activities, readings, and worksheets that focus on understanding her symptoms and learning practical techniques to manage them. This lesson is important as it empowers the student with tools to navigate her experiences, fostering resilience and emotional well-being.

Tier 3
2/25
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Daniel Simone

S

MA Counselor, Social Worker

Coping Strategies for Depersonalization

This lesson plan is designed to help a 9th-grade girl with Depersonalization and Derealization Disorder (DDD) develop effective coping strategies. Through a series of three 30-minute sessions, the student will engage in activities, readings, and worksheets that focus on understanding her symptoms and learning practical techniques to manage them. This lesson is important as it empowers the student with tools to navigate her experiences, fostering resilience and emotional well-being.

Tier 3
2/25
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Tessa Speaks

S

MA Counselor

Stress Less Form

In this 15-minute one-on-one session, fifth graders will learn how to request support from the school counselor by completing a simple, student-friendly request form. This lesson empowers students to express their feelings and needs, ensuring they know how to access help when they need it (Tier 3 – Individual Support).

Tier 3
5/22
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Emory Read

s

VA Counselor

Silent SOS

A one-on-one guided session teaching individuals to recognize internal silent cries for help and develop a personalized SOS outreach plan. This Tier 3 mental health lesson lasts one 35-minute session and equips clients with self-awareness tools and a step-by-step SOS plan.

Tier 3
8/12

Marina De Leon

q

TX Instructor

Mindful Moments: Interactive Mental Health

This interactive lesson for 9th graders focuses on mental health through engaging activities and discussions, without the emphasis on physical exercise. Students will explore stress management and emotional well-being through creative and reflective exercises, making mental health education accessible and relatable.

Tier 1
4/30
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ANGELA FRANK

V

MI Social Worker

Coping Mechanisms and Support Systems

This lesson introduces students to healthy coping mechanisms and the importance of support systems in overcoming substance use challenges. Through workshops and group activities, students will identify resources available to them, fostering a supportive environment. This lesson is crucial in equipping students with the skills to manage stress and seek help when needed, promoting overall well-being.

Tier 1
2/25

Deb Schmill

h

NY Instructor

What’s Your Wellness Map?

A whole-class session guiding 9th grade students to co-create personalized treatment plans, fostering self-awareness and ownership of their mental health journey. This 45-minute Tier 1 lesson in Counseling & Therapy (Treatment Planning & Goal Setting) equips students with tools to map emotions, set goals, and support peers.

Tier 1
8/18

Lauren

s

VA Counselor

Coping with Depression: Strategies and Skills

This lesson introduces 7th-grade students to coping strategies for managing feelings of depression. Through a combination of video content and interactive activities, students will explore various techniques to help them understand and manage their emotions. This lesson is crucial as it equips students with practical skills to handle emotional challenges, promoting mental well-being and resilience.

Tier 1
2/25

Ryan Holt Ph.D.

E

CA Psychologist

Why Do We Feel This Way?

A focused session for students who have experienced trauma, helping them understand their emotions and reactions. This lesson is key to personal insight and emotional regulation.

Tier 3
3/27
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Brittney Bullard

a

NC Social Worker

Mind Matters: Coping Skills

This lesson introduces 8th-grade students to essential mental health and coping skills, focusing on strategies to manage stress and emotions effectively. It's crucial for students to develop these skills to navigate the challenges of adolescence and build resilience.

Tier 1
5/4
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Jeanne Lenza

S

MA General Education Teacher

Emotional Wellbeing Survey

In this lesson, students will learn about emotional wellbeing through discussions and activities that promote positive mental health. They will complete a survey to reflect on their own feelings and coping strategies. This lesson helps students develop self-awareness and emotional literacy, which are crucial for their overall mental health.

Tier 1
2/25

Diana Rodriguez

q

TX Counselor