Future Fears Worksheet Future Fears Worksheet
Mind Matters: Self-Reflection & Planning
Name: ____________________________
Date: _____________________________
1. Current State Check-In
How are you feeling about the future (graduation, college, jobs, moving) right now? Circle the emoji that fits best and briefly explain why.
😰 🤔 😐 🙂 🚀
2. Identifying the Hurdles
What is your "Number One" fear or worry regarding life after high school? Be specific (e.g., "Finding friends," "Paying for rent").
3. Building Your Safety Net
For the fear you listed, identify one Hope (a positive outcome) and one Resource (a tool or person) that can help you clear that hurdle.
The Hope (Success looks like...)
The Resource (Who/What can help?)
4. My Personal Coping Toolbox
Which strategies from the presentation (or your own) work best for you? Choose three and describe when you'll use them.
1
2
3
Group Discussion Prompt:
"If you could give one piece of advice to your future self, what would it be?"
Head Space Teacher Guide Head Space Teacher Guide
Facilitating Mental Health Discussions with Empathy
Pacing Overview (45-60 Minutes)
0-5m Intro & Safe Space Rules
5-15m Anxiety & Breathing Tools
15-25m Depression & Signs
25-45m Hopes & Hurdles Activity
45-60m Debrief & Resources
Facilitator Scripts
Opening & Safe Space (Slide 2)
"Today we’re talking about something every single one of us has: mental health. Before we start, let's agree that this is a safe zone. If you share, we listen. If someone else shares, we protect their privacy."
On Anxiety (Slide 3)
"Have you ever felt 'butterflies' before a big game? That's tiny anxiety. For some, that feeling stays around even when there's no test. It's like an alarm system stuck 'on.'"
The Great Unknown (Slide 7)
"Graduation is supposed to be 'the best time,' but it's scary. Leaving behind a years-long routine is a major shift. It's completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and dread."
Hope & Hurdles Intro (Slide 8)
"A hurdle is just something in your way. Name your biggest future hurdle. Then, find a 'Hope' (why jumping it matters) and a 'Resource' (who can help). This is your personal game plan."
Final Takeaway (Slide 9)
"You don't need to have your life figured out by June. You just need to know who to call when things feel heavy. Look at the resources—save these in your phone. You aren't doing this alone."
Crisis Safety Protocol
Disclosure
If a student discloses self-harm or suicidal intent, follow mandated reporting immediately. Do not leave the student alone.
Safe Exit
Allow distressed students to go to the counselor's office without drawing attention to them.
Extension Activities
Roleplay Resilience: Have students practice asking a teacher or mentor for help in pairs.Coping Wall: Create a board where students post one-word coping strategies anonymously.Future Letter: Write a letter to their "1-year post-grad" self about their current hopes.
Self-Care for You
Teaching these topics is emotionally demanding. Remember:
• You are a bridge, not a therapist.
• Take 5 minutes after class to reset.
• Discuss your experience with a trusted colleague.
Post-Session Reflection
WHICH STUDENT(S) MAY NEED EXTRA FOLLOW-UP SUPPORT?
DID ANY SPECIFIC CONCEPTS (ANXIETY/DEPRESSION) RESONATE MOST?
ADDITIONAL NOTES FOR FUTURE SESSIONS:
Breaking Silence Slides Breaking the Silence
Understanding Depression & Supporting Others
The Depression Spectrum
What it looks like:
• Loss of interest in hobbies
• Chronic fatigue/low energy
• Changes in sleep & appetite
• Feelings of worthlessness
"Depression is like being forced to watch a movie you hate, over and over, while someone turns the brightness all the way down."
How to Help a Friend
1. Ask
"I've noticed you've been quiet lately. Are you doing okay?"
2. Listen
Don't try to "fix" it. Just be there. Validating feelings is powerful.
3. Referral
"This sounds really hard. Let's talk to the counselor together."
Great Beyond Slides The Great Beyond
Navigating the High School Exit
What Changes?
A
Loss of Support: Teachers and counselors aren't down the hall anymore.
B
Social Isolation: Friends disperse to colleges or different cities.
C
Decision Fatigue: Too many choices about majors, jobs, and housing.
Reflection:
"The scariest thing is that for the first time, I have to be the one to decide what my day looks like."
Hopes Hurdles Slides Hopes & Hurdles
Mapping Your Way Over the Obstacles
The Workshop Formula
The Hurdle
The specific fear or obstacle blocking your path. (e.g., "I won't find friends in college.")
The Hope
The positive outcome you are reaching for. (e.g., "I will join a club and find one core friend.")
Activity: Complete your worksheet now.
Safety Net Slides Your Safety Net
Building a Lifetime of Support
Three Layers of Support
Personal
Friends, Family, Mentors, Coaches.
Professional
Doctors, Therapists, Counselors.
Community
Helplines, Support Groups, Apps.
One Number to Know
9 - 8 - 8
Crisis Lifeline
Available 24/7. Text or Call. Completely Confidential.
