Welcome students and introduce the topic. Explain that today we’ll explore what happens in our brains when we feel stressed, and learn how to notice triggers and choose healthier responses.

Outline the agenda. Emphasize that we’ll cover the stress response, define triggers vs. responses, see real-world examples, and prepare for our mapping activity.

Explain the key brain regions: the amygdala (alarm center) and prefrontal cortex (decision-making). Show a simple brain diagram if available.

Clarify the difference: Triggers are events or thoughts; responses are how our body and mind react. Use a simple two-column visual.

Provide concrete, relatable scenarios. Encourage students to think of their own examples.

Introduce simple strategies that strengthen the prefrontal cortex’s ability to pause. Mention deeper treatment in upcoming discussion.

Transition into the Mapping Triggers and Responses activity. Remind students to use what they’ve learned about their brain’s stress response.