Coping Skills Homework

Requirements

• 5 minutes during one class session
• 10-15 minutes in a subsequent class

How it Works

• Along with a day’s assigned homework, ask students to complete a quick coping skills exercise:
  • List 5 to 10 coping skills they have used recently when they felt like blowing off steam, procrastinating, or comforting themselves
  • Circle those coping skills that they now think might have been unhealthy or counterproductive
  • For each circled skill, come up with a healthier alternative
• Give extra credit points for the exercise if applicable.

Benefits

• Helps students reflect on how they currently cope.
• Helps students learn the difference between healthy and unhealthy behaviors.
• Helps students see that when it comes to reducing stress, they have choices.

Note:  You’ll find other exercises and resources for encouraging students to take charge of their wellness in the Self-Care Tools section.