Draw it
In one minute draw something that can stress you out sometimes.
If you are feeling stress and more worries than normal, who are 3 adults you can talk to who can help?
A teacher, your parents/guardians, your siblings, your friends, your school counselor, your school social worker, etc.
Everyone feels worries and stress sometimes
True
What is your favorite physical (to get your body moving) coping skill to use when you feel overwhelmed?
An example can be going for a walk, going for a jog, playing sports with friends/family, yoga, etc.
Sarah loved horses and collected horse toys. Her brother Eric liked horses too and sometimes played with her toys. Sarah found one of her horse toys was broken in Eric's room. How do you think Sarah feels?
Sarah could feel: angry, hurt, frustrated, betrayed, etc.
In one minute draw a peaceful place that you can visualize when you are feeling stress.
Imagine you are having a tough day. What coping skill would help you feel better?
Physical activities, talking to someone, artistic activities, etc.
It is better to ignore your feelings and pretend they are not there.
False
What is your favorite non-physical coping skill to use when you feel overwhelmed?
Some examples could be: drawing, painting, listening to music, reading, working on a puzzle, etc.
Henry was excited to play with his friend Jake, then an hour before they were supposed to hang out Henry learned that Jake could not come over to play.
How would you feel if you were excited to visit your friend and last minute you found out plans changed?
You could feel: upset, hurt, angry, confused, sad, stressed, etc.
In two minutes draw something that you can do to feel better if you are feeling stress.
A friend of yours is having a hard time. They have had hard things happen, are worrying more about little things, and need some advice on how to feel better. What advice would you give them?
Some advice could be: You're doing your best and that is what matters. (the possibility is endless)
Thinking all the things in your day that you don't like and complaining is a good way to feel happy.
False
What is one coping skill that you are currently using that you would like to keep using forever?
Some examples are: yoga, going for a walk, rollerblading, painting, playing board games, seeing loved ones, eating a comfort food, etc.
Lizzie doesn't like going to the dentist because she doesn't like the sounds of the dental tools. Her parents told her that she needs to go to a dentist appointment today. How do you think she is feeling?
Lizzie could be feeling: anxious, scared, worried, stressed, etc.
In two minutes draw a picture of yourself using your coping skills and feeling calm.
At bedtime Will starts to worry about things he wouldn't usually feel anxiety about during the day. What are 4 ideas of things that he can do to feel calmer and fall asleep?
Listen to guided mediation or audio book, deep breathing, visualization of happy memory, counting, positive thoughts, etc.
Exercising releases "feel good" chemicals in our bodies that can improve our mood. When we feel better, we often make better choices about how to cope with stressful situations.
True
What is one coping skill you hope to use more?
Some examples are: exercising, journaling, drawing, writing, positive affirmations, spending quality time with family or friends, etc.
Ben has been feeling stressed lately and at bedtime he starts to notice all of his worries come up. How do you think Ben is feeling?
Ben could be feeling: overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, etc.
In two minutes draw three things that you are grateful for today.
Sometimes our brain can think unkind things about ourselves. When this happens we need to stop, take a deep breath, and think of something positive. What are 3 positive things we can say to ourselves?
I am smart. I am worthy. I am beautiful/handsome. I am strong. I am loved. I am...etc.
Stress can affect the way you think and the actions you choose.
True
What is your favorite coping skill you have learned from this group?
Some examples can be the 5 senses, breathing techniques, creating a destress music playlist, talking about our emotions, leaning on support during tough times, etc.
Lucy just found out that her favorite aunt is sick. How do you think Lucy is feeling?
Lucy could be feeling: sad, alone, anger, hurt, etc.