A new handbook has been launched to help educators integrate films into lessons on mental health, providing an engaging, creative platform for students to reflect on emotional well-being. It includes 13 lesson plans, available in multiple languages, offering practical resources and guidance for teachers.
The Lessons for YoungMinders! handbook is designed to support educators in teaching mental health topics through the use of films. By using short films and educational clips, the handbook encourages students to reflect on emotional well-being, identity, and mental health creatively and thoughtfully.
The films provide a safe and engaging entry point for discussions, fostering critical thinking while addressing issues like stigma, self-care, and supporting others facing mental health challenges.
The handbook is divided into two sections:
Part I focuses on artistic short films that explore mental health through character-driven narratives
Part II offers educational clips that present mental health topics in a more structured, informative way
Together, these resources balance emotional engagement with evidence-based content, supporting age-appropriate conversations about mental health in schools.
The lesson plans incorporate a variety of active learning methods such as visual, inquiry-based, and experiential learning, all designed to help students critically analyse their thoughts and feelings about mental health. The document also includes worksheets, activities, and resources to support both teachers and students.
In addition to the English version, the handbook will be available in Portuguese, Greek, Lithuanian and Croatian, ensuring wider accessibility for educators across Europe.
This initiative is part of the ongoing efforts to reduce stigma and promote open, compassionate conversations about mental health.
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