Lesson Plan

Stress SOS Lesson Plan

Students will define stress, recognize its impact on health and learning, and practice three evidence-based coping strategies they can use immediately.

Understanding and managing stress supports students’ mental health, improves focus, and builds resilience, fostering a positive classroom environment.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Prepare Materials

5 minutes

Step 1

Introduction & Definition

5 minutes

Step 2

Explore Stress Impact

10 minutes

Step 3

Practice Coping Strategies

10 minutes

Step 4

Closure & Reflection

5 minutes

Slide Deck

Stress SOS: Coping Strategies

Welcome students to the Stress SOS Coping Strategies Slideshow. Explain that they’ll learn three quick, research-backed tools to manage stress immediately.

What Is Stress?

Define stress and connect to student experiences. Invite one or two quick examples.

Short-Term Effects of Stress

Highlight how short-term stress can be helpful but also uncomfortable.

Long-Term Effects of Stress

Explain that ongoing stress can harm health and performance over time.

#1: Deep Breathing

Demonstrate the breathing steps slowly. Count out loud as they follow along.

#2: Positive Self-Talk

Ask students to think of a personal challenge and craft a short positive phrase.

#3: Quick Movement Breaks

Invite everyone to stand and perform one quick movement now.

Your Turn to Practice

Encourage students to pick one technique and notice its effect immediately.

Key Takeaways

Reinforce key points and prepare to transition to the reflection worksheet.

Lesson Plan

Stress SOS Lesson Plan

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Prepare Materials

Step 1

Introduction & Definition

Step 2

Explore Stress Impact

Step 3

Practice Coping Strategies

Step 4

Closure & Reflection

Slide Deck

Stress SOS: Coping Strategies

What Is Stress?

Short-Term Effects of Stress

Long-Term Effects of Stress

#1: Deep Breathing

#2: Positive Self-Talk

#3: Quick Movement Breaks

Your Turn to Practice

Key Takeaways

Worksheet

Script

Cool Down

Stress SOS: Take Control

Patricia Bailey