Stress & Mindfulness for Teens

• SEL
• 9-12 Grade

I'm Totally STRESSED! What it means and what to do to HELP YOU!

So, what exactly IS Stress?

Stress is when there is a stimulus (trigger or something challenging) and how our bodies' react to the stimulus.  

How would you rate your stress TODAY?

No Stress!

Eh, I little bit, but nothing I can't handle.

Feeling pretty Stressed.

I'm REALLY stressed.

So SO SO MUCh stress. I'm surprised I'm even here.

Mental Effects of Stress

Anxiety

Depression

Irritability

Lack of Interest

Wandering Thoughts

Suicidal Ideation

Physical Effects of Stress

Headaches

Skin Problems

High Blood Pressure

Diabetes

Over-eating junk foods

Sore muscles

Jaw Clenching

Inflammation

Mental Health Issues

Physical Issues

Anxiety

Elevated Blood Pressure

Headaches

Acne & Skin Issues

Cycle of Stress

Ok, Yep, I'm stressed, but what can I do about it?

- Practice Mindfulness

- Create Healthy Routines (Release, Replace, & Restore)

- Exercise 30 minutes a day

- Journaling

- Remove Distractions

My understanding of Mindfulness

Never heard of it.

Heard of it, but I don't know what that means.

Heard of it, and I think I can explain it.

I know what it is, and I've practiced it a few times.

I practice mindfulness all the time. I'm a pro!

What are some of your current coping strategies when you deal with stress?

Mindful Movements

Moving your body is an important part of ending the stress cycle.  This can be done by simply taking a mindful walk, doing some stretch exercises, or playing a sport.  Check out the site on the next page and choose a movement you want to try.  Grab a mat try those movements.  

www.changetochill.org

What was your favorite movement?

Meditation

Find your mat, get comfortable, and let's practice meditating and being present....

How do you feel after meditating?

😒🙁😐🙂😃

The reasons mindfulness is helpful with stress: 

- It reduces suffering, both mental and physical suffering

- Increases attention to the present

- Helps you focus on the ways you respond to others or stressors

- Increases Empathy, Compassion and Hope & helps with our relationships with others

Ideas to use
mindfulness in my life

My understanding of Mindfulness (end of lesson)

Never heard of it.

Heard of it, but I don't know what that means.

Heard of it, and I think I can explain it.

I know what it is, and I've practiced it a few times.

I practice mindfulness all the time. I'm a pro!