aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	Health
What age group	Year or Grade 10
What topic	seeking help resources for teens
Quantity	1
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Lesson Introduction: Seeking Help Resources for Teens

Engaging Hook: The "Support Web" Activity

Objective:

To introduce students to the concepts of mental health and available support resources by creating a visual representation of their own support networks.

Materials Needed:

• Large sheets of paper or poster board
• Markers or colored pencils
• Sticky notes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Start the Lesson with a Story: Begin by sharing a brief, relatable story about a teenager who faced a tough time and found support from various resources – whether friends, family, school counselors, or community programs. This story should convey the importance of seeking help and illustrate the positive outcomes of doing so. Ask students to reflect on how often they might face similar situations.

2. Creating the Support Web:

   • Hand out a large sheet of paper to each student or pair of students.
   • Ask them to draw a circle in the center of the paper with the title "My Support Web."
   • Instruct students to write their names in the center circle.
   • Around the central circle, they will draw lines to other circles representing people or resources they trust or would turn to for help (e.g., parents, friends, teachers, school counselors, or mental health hotlines).
   • Encourage creativity by allowing them to use colors and drawings to represent the different connections.

3. Discussion: Once students have created their support webs, facilitate a class discussion by asking:

   • Who is included in your support web, and why?
   • Are there any resources you wish you had that might help someone in need?
   • How can we identify when someone may need help, and how can we encourage them to reach out?

Conclusion:

Conclude this introduction by emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength and that knowing where to find support is essential for maintaining both mental and physical health. Transition into the main part of the lesson by promising them that they will explore various resources in-depth, preparing them to recognize and seek help when needed.

This engaging first activity not only captures students' attention but also helps them understand the significance of support systems in their lives, setting a strong foundation for discussing help resources for teens.