Welcome everyone! Today we'll dive into stress—what it is, how it affects us, and ways to manage it. Briefly introduce yourself and outline the session: definitions, activities, mindfulness practice, and reflection.

Read aloud the learning objectives. Emphasize that by the end, students will know what stress is, recognize its impact, and have practical strategies to cope.

Ask: “What comes to mind when you hear ‘stress’?” Capture student ideas. Then define stress as a natural response to demands or threats.

Invite student volunteers to suggest teen stressors. Add to the list and discuss each briefly.

Explain that stress triggers a range of reactions. Use real-life examples (e.g., test anxiety causing headaches).

Hand out the [Stress And Coping Worksheet](#stress-coping-worksheet). In pairs, have students list their personal stress triggers and reactions. Circulate and ask probing questions.

Draw two columns on the whiteboard labeled “Healthy” and “Unhealthy.” Ask students to share strategies from their worksheets and place them in the correct column.

Prompt volunteers to share one strategy and explain why it fits its category. Discuss evidence-based benefits of healthy strategies.

Guide students through a brief mindfulness exercise using the script. Encourage soft focus or closed eyes. Play gentle audio if possible.

Distribute the [Personal Stress Reflection Cards](#stress-reflection-cards). Instruct students to write one current stressor and one coping strategy they’ll try this week. Invite voluntary sharing.

Ask students to complete the exit ticket before leaving. Collect responses to gauge understanding and plan follow-up support.