Launch: Managing anxiety or stress in challenging situations
Launch: Managing anxiety or stress in challenging situations [∞]
Launch: Managing Anxiety or Stress in Challenging Situations (10-15 minutes)
Objective:
Equip learners with strategies to manage anxiety and stress during challenging situations and help them reframe these emotions as signals that can guide growth.
Preparation (Before the Launch):
- Media Resource: Select a short video clip (2-3 minutes) illustrating someone successfully managing anxiety or stress. Example: “The Power of a Growth Mindset” (Ted-Ed, 2:17) or “Box Breathing Technique Explained” (short mindfulness video). If no video is available, consider sharing an anecdote about an athlete, artist, or leader who used techniques like breathing or mindset shifts to overcome stress.
Launch Outline
1. Opening (2 minutes)
- Play the selected media clip. [1] If using a clip about box breathing, [2]introduce it by saying:
“We all face moments of stress and anxiety—before a test, speaking in front of a group, or trying something new. This video shows a simple but powerful way to calm yourself in those moments.”
- After the clip, ask:
“What stood out to you in the video? Have you ever tried anything like this before?”
2. Introduction to the Topic (2 minutes)
- Share this insight:
“Stress and anxiety are natural—they happen when your body is trying to prepare for something important. But when they feel overwhelming, they can get in the way. The good news is that there are ways to manage those feelings, and we’re going to explore some of them today.”
3. A/B Socratic Questions (5-7 minutes)
Pose the following A/B questions, allowing time for learners to discuss and reflect on each.
- The Role of Anxiety:
- Option A: Anxiety is a sign that something is wrong and I should avoid the situation.
- Option B: Anxiety is a sign that something important is happening, and I can face it with the right tools.
“Which mindset helps you deal with anxiety more effectively? Why?”
- Stress Management Strategies:
- Option A: When I feel stressed, I should push through and ignore it.
- Option B: When I feel stressed, I should pause, breathe, and take care of myself.
“Which response leads to better long-term results, and why?”
- Asking for Support:
- Option A: I should handle anxiety and stress on my own.
- Option B: It’s okay to ask for help or talk to someone when I feel overwhelmed.
“When do you think it’s important to seek help, and how might that make a difference?”
- Stress and Growth:
- Option A: Stress is always a bad thing.
- Option B: Stress can sometimes help me grow if I learn how to manage it.
“How can challenges that cause stress actually help you become stronger?”
4. Reflection and Takeaway (3-5 minutes)
- Reflection Prompt: Ask learners to reflect quietly for 1-2 minutes:
“Think about a time when you felt anxious or stressed. What helped you feel better? What could you do differently next time?”
- Group Share: Invite 2-3 learners to share their reflections.
- Encourage them to connect their answers to the strategies discussed or the video.
- End with a practical challenge:
“This week, if you start to feel anxious or stressed, try one new strategy—like pausing to breathe, reframing your mindset, or asking for help. You might be surprised by how it helps.”
Post-Launch Extension
- Provide a mindfulness challenge:
“Practice box breathing for 2 minutes each day this week. Notice how it affects your mood and focus.”
This launch equips learners with practical tools to manage anxiety and stress while fostering a supportive space for open discussion.
