Lesson Plan

Mind Matters: Navigating Mental Health

Introduce 7th and 8th graders to mental health, focusing on depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, while providing tools to recognize and manage these issues and guidance on seeking help.

This lesson empowers students during May Mental Health Awareness Month by increasing awareness, promoting self-care, and reducing stigma around mental health challenges.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Teacher Preparation

10 minutes

Step 1

Introduction & Discussion

10 minutes

Step 2

Recognizing Mental Health Challenges

10 minutes

Step 3

Managing Emotions Activity

10 minutes

Step 4

Seeking Help & Conclusion

15 minutes

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Slide Deck

Mind Matters: Navigating Mental Health

Introduce the lesson and set a welcoming environment for discussion. Explain what will be covered in today's session about mental health and why it's important. Mention that the session is interactive and encourage students to participate.

What is Mental Health?

Discuss the basic concept of mental health. Ask students what they understand by mental health to build on existing knowledge.

Common Mental Health Challenges

Introduce common mental health challenges that students might hear about or see in their communities. Stress that these challenges are common and help is available.

Recognizing the Signs

Focus on what signs to look for. Encourage students to share their thoughts on what these signs might be and how they can notice them in themselves or peers.

Managing Your Emotions

Discuss simple techniques for managing emotions. Provide a brief demonstration or ask students to practice one technique during the session if time allows.

Seeking Help When You Need It

Review how to seek help when experiencing mental health challenges. Stress the importance of talking to adults or professionals, and mention the resources provided in the lesson.

Wrap-Up & Q&A

Conclude the lesson with a review of the key points covered. Open the floor for any student questions and reinforce the message that mental health matters.

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Activity

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Worksheet

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Mind Matters: Navigating Mental Health

Eric Dragsbaek

Tier 1
For Districts
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